44  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

be  hardened  through  the  deceitfulness  of  sin. 
Thou  knowest,  O  Lord,  our  weakness,  and  dan- 
ger of  temptation;  our  danger  from  the  cruel, 
subtle  enemy  of  our  souls  ;  and  from  this  present 
world  that  is  so  full  of  snares ;  and  from  our  own 
vile  flesh  and  deceitful  hearts,  so  apt  to  betray 
us  into  the  enemy's  hands;  we  pray,  therefore, 
good  Lord,  that  thou  wilt  arm  us  with  the  whole 
armour  of  God,  and  uphold  us  with  thy  free 
Spirit,  and  watch  over  us  for  good  evermore. 
Especially  in  the  times  of  our  sorest  trials,  let  us 
experience  the  strongest  aids  of  thy  heavenly 
grace,  that  we  may  never  fall  a  miserable  prey 
to  those  deadly  enemies  that  seek  to  devour  us. 

And  teach  us,  our  God,  to  know  the  day  of 
grace,  and  the  time  of  our  visitation,  and  to  see 
the  things  of  our  peace,  and  duly  to  mind  and 
settle  the  great  eternal  affairs  of  our  souls,  in 
this  our  day,  before  they  be  hid  from  our  eyes.. 
And  while  we  have  time,  O  enable  us  to  use  and 
improve  it,  to  those  great  ends  for  which  thou  art 
pleased  to  put  that  precious  talent  into  our  hands, 
that  we  may  make  the  short  and  uncertain  stay 
which  we  have  here,  an  opportunity  of  securing 
to  ourselves  a  sure  and  everlasting  well-being, 
when  we  shall  depart  from  hence. 

And  seeing  thou  art  pleased  yet  to  hold  our 
souls  in  life,  and  to  make  us  find  and  feel,  by 
every  day's  experience,  how  abundantly  gracious 
and  merciful  thou  art,  with  much  patience  and 
long-suffering,  enduring  us,  and  with  loving  kind- 
ness and  manifold  blessings,  still  preventing  and 
following  us.  O  give  u»  hearts  more  sensible  of 
thy  love,  more  affected  with  thy  mercy,  and 
more  thankful  for  those  continued  favours  which 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  45 

thou  art  pleased  to  multiply  upon  us.  And  help 
us  to  show  forth  thy  praise  and  the  truth  of  our 
thanks,  not  only  in  speaking  good  of  the  name  of 
God,  hut  so  ordering  our  conversations  as  be- 
comes the  gospel  of  our -Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

And  to  thy  mercy  in  him,  most  merciful  Father, 
we  do  now  hurnhly  recommend  ourselves,  and  all 
that  we  are,  and  have,  this  present  night;  beseech- 
ing thee  to  preserve  and  defend,  and  bless  and 
keep  us,  both  HI  soul  and  body,  froni  all  evils 
and  dangers,  to  which  the  weakness  of  our  frame, 
and  the  greatness  of  our  sins,  do  expose  us. 
And  grant  us  such  comfortable  repose,  whereby 
our  frail  nature  may  be  refreshed,  and  our  de- 
cayed strength  recovered,  that  we  may  rise  again 
better  fitted  and  enabled  to  serve  thee  accord- 
ing to  thy  will  in  all  the  duties  of  the  following 
day.  if  thou  shalt  be  pleased  to  make  addition  of 
another  day  to  our  lives.  And  as  thou  addest 
days  arid  mercies,  be  pleased  also  to  add  repent- 
ance and  amendments  to  our  lives ;  that,  as  we 
come  nearer  to  our  end,  we  may  be  made  still 
fitter  to  the  enjoyment  of  thy  heavenly  kingdom; 
that  every  day  may  bring  us  still  so  much  nearer 
to  those  everlasting  joys  and  glories  w  hich  thou 
hast  prepared  for  them  that  love  thee.  And  for 
all  the  good  things  that  ever  we  have  had,  and 
do  at  present  enjoy,  and  yet  hope  for  from  thy 
bountiful  hands,  thine,  O  blessed  glorious  Lord 
our  God,  be  the  praise,  and  honour,  and  glory, 
offered  up  with  all  grateful  hearts,  by  us,  and  the 
whole  church,  now  and  for  evermore.  Amen. 


46  Evening  prayer  for  a  Family. 

Jl  third  Evening  Prayer. 

OLORD,  ihou  art  our  gracious  God,  our 
chiefest  good,  and  our  most  merciful  Father 
in  Jesus  Christ;  in  whose  great  name,  and  pre- 
vailing mediation,  alone  it  is  that  we,  who  have 
multiplied  our  offences  against  thee,  are  encou- 
raged still  to  present  our  persons,  and  our  prayers 
here  before  thee.  It  is  a  privilege  which  we 
must  acknowledge  ourselves  utterly  unworthy  to 
enjoy,  that  thou  shouldst  admit  us  into  thy  ser- 
vice; yea  into  fellowship  with  thy  blessed  self. 
We  durst  not  appear  in  the  presence  of  such  a 
holy  glorious  Majesty,  in  our  own  names,  or 
trusting  in  any  merits  or  righteousness  in  our- 
selves; being  conscious  to  so  much  of  our  sin 
and  guilt,  as  may  make  us  ashamed  to  come 
before  thy  face,  and  to  tremble  for  fear  of  thy 
judgments.  But  we  come  in  the  name  and 
mediation  of  thy  dear  Son,  whom  thou  dost  in- 
finitely love  above  all ;  who  has  fully  satisfied  thy 
justice  for  our  sins,  and  does  continually  inter- 
cede at  thy  right  hand  for  our  souls;  whom  thou 
delightest  to  honour  in  sparing,  accepting,  arid 
saving  poor  unworthy  sinners  upon  his  account. 
O  deliver  us,  most  gracious  Lord,  for  his  sake, 
from  all  our  transgressions,  for  which  our  hearts 
condemn  us;  and  from  all,  of  which  thou,  that 
art  greater  than  our  hearts,  knowest  us  to  be 
guilty.  And  seal  to  us  a  pardon,  in  his  most 
precious  blood,  which  speaks  better  things  in 
our  behalf,  than  we  are  able  to  do  ourselves,  in 
all  our  prayers. 

And  may  the  time  past  of  our  lives  suffice  to 
have  lived  to  ourselves,  and  to  have  served  our 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  47 

own  lusts  and  pleasures.  O  put  an  end  to  all 
our  presumptuous  and  treacherous  dealings  vith 
thy  heavenly  all-seeing  Majesty;  and  grant  u^ 
new  and  clean,  humble  and  contrite  hearts,  to 
tremble  at  thy  word  and  presence,  and  to  hate 
and  abandon  all  our  foolish  and  sinful  misdoings. 
And  wiltthou  engage  to  thyself,  O  blessed  Lord, 
the  best  and  frequentest  thoughts  of  our  minds, 
the  chief  and  choicest  affections  of  our  hearts,  and 
the  main  tendency  and  activity  of  our  souls;  O 
let  us  be  taken  up  with  such  content  and  delight 
in  attendance  upon  thee,  and  communion  with 
thee,  that  the  most  tempting  things  of  this  world 
may  not  pull  us  down  into  an  inordinate  or  im- 
moderate love  of  them;  nor  disturb  and  hinder 
us  in  the  pursuit  of  what  our  faith  foresees,  and 
what  thy  love  has  prepared  for,  and  promised  to 
thy  servants. 

Hear  us,  O  Lord,  for  ourselves,  and  let  our 
supplications  also  ascend  before  thee  in  the  be- 
half of  all  men  living.  Send  thy  word,  and  the 
means  of  grace  to  such  as  are  yet  destitute  of 
them ;  and  make  them  efficacious,  and  the  savour 
of  life  in  those  that  do  enjoy  them.  Convert  the 
unconverted,  and  perfect  thy  good  work  where 
thou  hast  begun  it.  Give  a  check  from  heaven 
to  all  prafaneness,  vice  and  ungodliness,  that 
presumtuous  sinners  may  be  ashamed,  arid  the 
wickedness  of  the  wicked  may  come  to  an  end. 
O  make  thy  church  to  increase  and  flourish,  and 
thy  servants  to  prevail  and  rejoice.  Be  gracious 
and  favourable  to  this  land,  and  to  the  head  and 
governors  thereof,  and  to  all  inferior  and  parti- 
cular members  of  it.  O  do  thou  rule  all  our  rul- 
ers, counsel  all  our  counsellors,  teach  all  our 


IvIBRARY 

OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORI 


OK 


Mrs.  SARAH  P.  WALSWORT 

Received  October,  1894. 
Accessions  No .  ff^Y (& f?      Class  No. 


PRAYERS 


AKD 

OFFICES    OF   DEVOTION. 

FOR 

FAMILIES, 

AND  FOR 

PARTICULAR  PERSONS 

UPON  MOST  OCCASIONS. 


BY  BENJAMIN  JENKS, 
Late  Rector  of  Harley,  in  Shropshire^  England. 


Men  ought  always  to  pray,  and  not  to  faint.— Luke  viii.  1. 

Continue  in  prayer,  and  watch  in  the  same  with  thanksgiving.— Col  ly. 


TJEIVBRSITY 


L.  D.  DEWEY  &  DARLING,  PUBLISHERS, 

220  Broadway,  (rear  of  the  American  .¥u*e*ro,) 
NEW-YORK. 

1833. 


TO  TUB 

RIGHT  REVEREND  i«  'AT  HER  IN  GOD, 

JOHN, 

LORD  BISHOP  OF  CHICHESTER. 

My  Lord, 

I  WAITED  with  some  impatience  to  see  that  de- 
sign accomplished  by  your  accurate  pen,  which  is 
here  attempted  now  by  my  weak  hand.  Ever 
since  you  were  pleased  to  acquaint  me  with 
your  intention  to  publish  something  of  this  nature, 
it  raised  my  expectation  of  your  obliging  the 
world  with  your  printed  Prayers,  as  you  have 
done  wittT  many  of  your  learned  and  season- 
able Sermons;  but  after  you  had  let  me  know 
the  reason  of  holding  your  hand,  the  same  might 
have  stopt  mine  too ;  and  I  should  have  desisted, 
had  the  good  Doctor  who  prevented  you,  or  any 
of  those  worthy  Authors,  that  thus  bestowed  their 
pains,  descended  to  such  particulars,  as  I  thought 
fit  for  the  use  of  those  whom  I  desire  to  serve. 

But  now  that  I  am  engaged,  my  Lord,  your  fa- 
vour showed  to  the  well-meant  performance  here, 
has  given  me  the  boldness  of  this  Dedication. 
And  the  advancement  of  such  persons  to  high  dig- 
nity in  our  church,  as  are  so  well  known  to  de- 
serve it,  encourages  me  also  to  hope,  that  n  gra- 


iv  Dedication. 

clous  God  hath  yet  a  greater  blessing  for  us  than 
our  own  demerits  give  us  reason  to  expect. 

I  beg  your  fatherly  benediction  upon  me,  and 
my  poor  endeavours,  who  am, 

MY  LORD, 
Your  obliged  Kinsman^ 

In  all  humble  observances^ 

BEN.  JENKS, 


lo  my  iviignooars  and  Acquaintance,  particularly  those  in  the 
Parishes  committed  to  my  Care. 

MY  DEAR  FRIENDS, 

IT  is  especially  for  your  sakes,  and  primarily  for  your  service,  that  1 
publish  this  Manual  of  Prayers,  fitted  to  the  capacities  of  your  minds,  to 
the  necessities  of  your  souls,  and  to  the  several  conditions  and  occasions 
of  your  lives.  Notwithstanding  all  the  books  of  devotion  already  extant, 
mj«ny  of  which  are  very  useful  and  excellent  in  their  kinds,  and  such  as 
I  should  recommend  to  you,  without  offering  any  other,  did  those  with 
which  I  am  best  satisfied  reach  as  far  as  I  have  designed  here  to  go,  and 
did  not  I  think  the  strain  of  some  too  high  for  many  of  you,  and  the  words 
arid  expressions  of  others  that  1  have  seen  in  your  hands,  too  low  and  flat, 
or  too  obsolete  and  improper,  and  v/hich.  will  rather  offend  than  edify 
such  as  have  their  senses  better  exercised  in  these  matters :  1  have  come 
to  the  resolution  of  adding  my  contribution  to  the  common  stock  :  yet, 
not  taking  upon  me  so  to  correct  or  censure  them  that  have  gone  before 
me,  as  to  discourage  any  from  making  use  of  those  helps  which  they  find 
agreeable  to  their  case,  and  efficacious  to  quicken  their  devotion :  But 
leaving  every  one  to  consult  their  own  sense,  and  profit  and  comfort  in 
choosing  and  taking  what  best  likes  their  particular  gust,  and  what  most 
fathers  their  pious  designs ;  and  to  make  what  alterations  also  they  please, 
even  in  the  ensuing  offices,  for  their  own  service,  if  they  shall  think  fit  to 
use  them  at  all. 

Nor  have  I  such  a  conceit  of  any  thing  that  is  my  own,  as  to  supposo 
it  free  from  the  weakness  and  defects  which  I  can  espy  elsewhere ;  1 
doubt  not  but  others  may  find  as  many  faults  here  :  Nsy,  I  cannot  think 
any  thing  of  this  nature  to  be  so  complete,  but  that  the  author  himself, 
in  tract  of  time,  may  see  reason  to  add  or  subtract,  to  alter  or  amend 
many  particulars  :  Indeed,  I  shall  as  soon  expect  to  see  a  shoe  made  to 
fit  every  foot,  as  a  particular  Form  of  Prayer  exactly  to  suit  all  the 
circumstances  of  every  soul. 

I  cannot  undertake  that  tue  following  Prayers  should  answer  all  tho 
occasions  which  any  one  may  ever  find  for  prayer  :  But  they  that  have 
the  spirit  of  supplication,  can  tell  how  to  fill  up  what  is  wanting ;  and 
such  as  I  help  in  most  cases,  may  help  themselves  in  the  rest.  I  am 
rather  apt  to  think,  that  so  many  as  are  here  set  down,  will  be  csnsured 
for  more  than  needful ;  but,  it  being  easy  to  pare  off,  the  censors  may  let 
alone  what  they  count  superfluous  ;  leaving  it  to  those  that  will  not  dis- 
dain its  assistance  ;  and  I  had  rather  be  under  an  imputation  from  som^ 
of  my  nsighbours,  for  busying  myself  more  than  I  have  need,  in  a  work 
that  might  have  been  spared,  th'anMfrear  the  recoilings  of  my  own  mind 
for  neglecting  to  impart  any  thing  that  I  thought  might  be  of  use  and 
service  to  the  rest. 

If  any  judge  that  I  might  better  have  left' this  behind  me,  not  to  be  a 
till  I  should  myself  have  been  no  moi-e  seen  :  I  was  once  of  the  same  mine!. 
and  had  so  continued  ;  but  that  I  could  not  be  sure,  that  many  for  whom 

A   2 


I  designed  it,  might  not  be  taken  off  before  me ;  whereby  this  piece  of 
friendship  which  I  had  for  them  would  have  been  lost  to  them  :  And  now 
that  I  do  undertake  the  thing  which  is  liable  to  many  reflections,  (who- 
ever be  the  manager)  every  one  thinking  he  has  a  title  to  judge  of  that 
wherein  every  one  is  equally  concerned ;  and  that  judgment  passing 
according  to  the  different  principles  and  sentiments,  and  the  particular 
genius  and  humour  of  each,  'tis  not  possible  here  to  please  every  one  :  But 
however  I  shall  not  fail  of  my  design,  if  I  can  be  so  happy  as  to  profit 
some.  And  if  so  be  I  take  any  way  peculiar  to  myself,  I  shall  only 
allege,  that  it  is  but  the  same  liberty  as  most  writers  on  this  subject 
have  taken.  Though  I  pretend  not  to  set  myself  on  a  level  with  the 
noted  guides  of  others'  devotion,  that  with  good  success,  and  general 
approbation,  have  laboured  herein,  yet  when  our  Lord  has  only  enjoined 
the  thing  to  be  done,  without  settling  the  manner  of  performance ;  even 
an  ordinary  man,  that  is  but  conversant  in  these  matters,  has  room 
humbly  to  propose  his  own  experience  as  long  as  he  assumes  not 
magisterially  to  impose  it  upon  his  readers  ;  which  in  this  present  under- 
taking, the  Judge  of  all  thoughts  knows  to  be  far  from  miae. 

I  name  no  morning  and  evening  prayers  for  particular  persons,  becaus* 
here  ars  so  many  occasional  prayers,  whereof  every  one  may  take  their 
choice  from  time  to  time,  for  private  use,  according  to  particular  exigen 
cies  ;  and  besides  those  for  families  may  as  fitly  serve  for  the  closet, 
changing  but  the  plural  number  into  the  singular.  I  have  not  directed 
to  conclude  the  evening  devotions  with  the  Lord's  Prayer  ;  not  because 
I  count  it  improper  at  that  time  to  be  used,  but  because  I  think  we  have 
still  a  liberty  of  adding  or  omitting  it ;  and  therefore  1  have  pointed  to  it 
for  one  part  of  the  day,  and  left  it  out  in  the  other ;  but  they  that  are  for 
it,  as  an  appendix  to  all  the  prayers  used  in  their  houses,  may  make  it  so 
if  they  please,  notwithstanding  that  I  shut  up  some  of  the  family  prayeri 
without  it.  I  make  no  distinction  neither  of  ordinary  days  ;  for  1  under- 
stand not  why  the  prayer  that  serves  for  Monday  or  Tuesday,  should 
not  be  as  good  and  proper  for  any  other  day  of  the  week ;  yet  I  have 
offered  some  variety,  that  you  may  take  sometimes  one  form,  and  some- 
times another  ;  or  some  part  of  this  form  and  some  of  that,  as  you  see 
occasion  and  shall  judge  most  pertinent. 

But  I  make  a  great  difference  of  the  qualities  of  persons,  and  states  of  the 
soul,  and  scenes  of  the  life;  according  to  which  I  have  distributed  and  suited 
the  offices  here  proposed.  And  though  it  be  not  needful  to  adapt  a  prayer 
to  every  man's  particular  employment  in  the  world ;  yet  no  man,  what- 
ever be  his  place  and  calling,  but  may  find  many  prayers  here  fitted  to 
the  condition  of  his  soul,  and  to  the  great  emergencies  of  his  life.  Only 
I  would  caution  any  who  may  need  to  be  so  advertised,  that  I  do  not 
intend  the  particular  prayers  entitled  for  such  and  such  persons,  of 
particular  ranks  and  stations,  as  their  excuse  to  supersede  all  praying 
else,  as  if  such  persons  needed  to  use  no  other  prayers  ;  but  those,  over 
and  above,  they  may  sometimes  add  to  the  rest:  And  so  prudently 
choosing  agreeable  offices,  and  so  taking  this  my  whole  performance,  with 
a  little  of  Christian  candour,  and  the  allowance  for  common  weakness,  I 
am  willing  to  hope  it  may  not  be  unacceptable  to  those  in  my  neighbour- 
hood (for  whom  1  am  chiefly  concerned)  as  coming  from  one  of  your 
acquaintance,  my  brethren,  and  one  not  so  utterly  unacquainted  with 
the  practice  and  the  benefit  of  such  exercises  of  devotion  ;  but  that  I  am 
able  to  say  somewhat  from  my  own  experience,  and  that  of  many  yew 


PREFACE.  Vli 

in  this  way.  However  small,  I  must  confess,  is  my  proficiency,  to  what 
it  might  have  been ;  yet  the  several  stages  that  my  soul  has  gone 
through  ;  the  trials  and  temptations  that  1  have  had ;  and  terrors  and 
perplexities  wherewith  I  have  grappled ;  the  conflicts  and  troubles  of 
mind  that  I  have  lain  under,  the  many  sins  that  I  have  fallen  into, 
(grievous  to  myself,  and  heinous  in  the  sight  of  God,  though  not  s» 
scandalous  as  some  others,  to  the  view  of  the  world ;)  and  the  escapes 
that  I  have  made,  the  preservations  and  deliverances,  the  mercies  and 
blessings,  the  revivings  and  comforts  that  I  have  found;  are  so  many 
enticements  to  me,  and  so  many  engagements  upon  me,  to  do  somewhat 
according  to  the  ability  which  God  hath  given  me,  for  the  direction, 
the  support,  and  help  of  others,  that  may  be  in  the  like  condition.  And 
may  the  thing  here  done  be  but  well  taken  by  any  that  fear  God,  the 
generation  of  them  that  seek  his  face,  and  are  in  love  with  prayer !  I 
shall  then  little  concern  myself  what's  the  resentment  or  censure  of  any- 
one else ;  whether  it  be  the  worldly  drudge,  the  sordid  earthworm  that 
throws  prayers  out  of  doors,  as  his  interruption  and  hindrance ;  or  the 
dissolute  epicure,  that  takes  pleasure  in  nothing  but  his  mire,  and  shrinks 
from  drawing  nigh  to  the  Holy  God,  as  his  hated  task  and  torment ;  or 
the  profane  droll,  that  even  laughs  his  Judge  Eternal  in  the  face,  and 
mightily  applauds  himself,  for  daring  to  make  a  scorn  of  all  that  is  serious 
and  sacred  ;  or  the  trifling  impertinent,  that  is  for  all  manner  of  exercises, 
but  only  those  of  religion ;  or  lastly,  the  formal  hypocrite,  that  only  now 
and  then  passes  a  slight  compliment  on  the  Majesty  of  Heaven,  but  still 
mortally  hates  the  life  and  power  of  godliness.  The  sense  and  the  satis- 
faction of  one  pious  experienced  Christian,  that  has  known  the  grace  of 
God  in  truth,  is  more  to  me  than  the  exceptions  and  the  clamours  of  a 
thousand  such  as  these. 

If  this  piece  fly  further  abroad  than  my  first  intention ;  and  if  others, 
that  know  nothing  of  what  concerns  me,  may  pick  out  any  thing  here 
to  further  them  in  the  way  heaven-ward,  I  shall  have  the  more  cause 
then  to  bless  God,  for  making  me  such  an  instrument  of  his  grace.  Yea, 
where  I  can  but  do  the  least  good  to  any  poor  soul,  I  shall  not  think  my 
labour  in  vain  in  the  Lord.  But  my  great  care  is  for  the  souls  of  whom 
I  have  the  charge  ;  and  for  the  rest  of  my  friends  and  neighbours  within 
my  reach,  whom  I  have,  you  know,  so  much  and  often  importuned  and 
called  upon  to  give  themselves  to  prayer,  both  in  your  families,  and  in 
your  retirements  every  day.  Not  barely  to  read  or  say  over  so  many 
words  of  prayer  (as  if  it  would  presently  make  all  whole  and  well,  only 
to  use  such  or  such  a  form,  that  you  think  pertinent  to  your  case,  as  a 
plaster  fit  for  th£  sore)  but  to  do  it  with  a  praying  heart,  with  a  mind  in- 
tent upon  the  work,  and  your  spirits  engaged  in  his  service.  The  reasons 

L'b  t  f  ^or  w*"ch'  and  the  necessity  of  it,  with  the  lawfulness  and 
er  y  o  expe(jiencv  of  using  forms  (especially  where  other  abili- 
"  ties  are  wanting)  I  shall  not  insist  upon  here ;  because  I 
have  done  it  already  elsewhere. 

Indeed,  what  some  talk  so  much  against  all  Forms  of  Prayer,  I  think* 
is  as  little  to  be  regarded  as  what  others  do  so  bitterly  inveigh  against  all 

Bishop  Wit-    Praver  tnat  *s  out  °f  form  J  but  m  this  matter  I  cannot 

tenhall  FEnte"    ^utmuch  approve  the  temper  of  an  eminent  churchman, 

thv  Clo-      (afterwards  made  one  of  our  Right  Rev.  Bishops)  who 

eLl  3d  edit  "      *n  *"s  method  and  order  for  private  devotion,  thus  freeij 

and  moderately  gives  his  sense  : 


Vlll  PREFACE. 

P.  62.  u  Whether  every  particular  expression,  or  the  just  words  be- 
fore-thought, it  happily  matters  not  very  much  ;  but  that  some  fit,  signifi- 
cant, proper,  and  quickening  expressions  for  the  several  parts  and  sub- 
stantials  of  my  prayer  be  prepared,  it  is  expedient."  P.  81.  "I  profes* 
myself  no  whit  guilty  of  under  valuing  the  free  effusions  of  the  soul  before 
God,  in  private  especially,  in  such  expressions  as  the  affected  moved  mind 
suggests ;  or  as  the  spirit  gives  utterance."  P.  284.  "  It  I  am  able  to 
pray  otherwise,  I  shall  not  haply  always  see  it  fit,  or  convenient,  to  use 
set  or  composed  forms  ;  for  that  there  may  be  many  particular  affecting 
circumstances  in  my  sins,  which  no  form  will  express  so  plainly  as  I  have 
need  to  express  them  for  the  moving  of  my  sorrow."  P.  285.  "  If  I 
find  my  heart  ready,  and  so  composed,  that  I  dare  venture  upon  what  we 
call  a  convinced  prayer,  it  being  of  my  own  invention,  by  the  assistance 
of  the  Spirit,  may  more  perfectly  suit,  my  condition,  in  all  than  one  framed 
by  another  to  my  hand."  P.  81,  82.  "  Though  constantly  to  use  that 
way,  may  make  our  devotion  more  slight  and  disorderly,  through  the 
coldness,  dulness,  or  heedlessness  of  our  heart,  or  through  distractions,  en- 
cumbrances, or  like  mischiefs  :  and  it  may  often  occasion  the  omission  of 
.many  necessary  things,  through  incognitancy,  and  unavoidable  forget- 
fulness."  P.  8.  "But  whether  the  words  in  which  we  utter  ourselves 
be  forethought  or  sudden,  provided  they  fitly  and  reverently  express  the 
inward  sense  of  our  hearts,  it  matters  not,  nor  is  it  at  all  essential  to 
prayer."  P.  81.  "Be  the  words  whose  they  will,  my  praying  them, 
i.  e.  offering  them  up  to  God,  with  a  heart  suitable  to  them,  hath  made 
them  as  much  mine,  as  if  I  had  invented,  contrived,  dictated,  or  penned 
them  at  first." 

The  manner  then  of  expressing  yourselves  in  my  words,  or  in  your 
own,  or  others,  I  leave,  as  here  this  author  does,  at  liberty  :  and  any  helps 
that  I  have  offered,  in  the  following  specimens,  you  may  take  or  refuse, 
as  you  see  good  :  only  I  must  with  all  earnestness  beseech  you  to  take 
care,  and  to  make  conscience  that  the  thing  be  daily  done,  and  that 
heartily,  as  to  the  Lord  ;  as  ever  you  hope  to  reap  any  real  good  from  the 
labours  of  your  ministers,  or  ever  to  see  their  faces,  or  the  face  of  God 
with  comfort  in  that  great  day,  when  we  must  all  give  up  our  last  ac- 
counts, and  be  finally  determined  for  our  everlasting  state.  When  such 
as  could  not  be  prevailed  with  to  give  themselves  to  prayer,  and  to  call 
upon  the  name  of  God,  now  in  the  day  of  grace,  this  time  of  mercy,  shall 
with  fruitless  desires,  wish  themselves  out  of  being  ;.  and  no  less  vainly, 
than  desperately,  call  upon  rocks  and  mountains  to  fall  upon  them,  and 
to  hide  them  from  his  face,  and  to  save  them  from  his  TV  rath  in  the  day  oi' 
judgment,  that  time  of  recompense  and  fury.  And,  therefore,  according 
to  that  most  cogent  admonition  of  the  author  of  the  Whole  Duty  of  Man, 
part  5,  sect.  12.  "Let  no  man  that  professes  himself  a  Christian,  keep 
so  heathenish  a  family,  as  not  to  see  that  God  be  daily  worshipped  in  it/" 
To  which  let  that  be  added  of  the  other  author  afore  quoted,  p.  15. 
*  Prayer  with  the  family,  no  one  who  would  have  God  to  bless  his  family. 
can  think  that  he  may  neglect."  And  I  shall  give  no  further  exhortation 
here  to  fa-iiily  prayer  ;*  because  I  have  done  so  much  to  that  purpose 
sines  the  first  edition  hereof,  in  anolher.  book  written  upon  that  particular 
argument. 

Beloved    I  am  more  sensible  of  my  own  frailty  t  than  to  reckon  upon  a 

*  The  bell  rung  to  prayers. 


PREFACE.  XX 

much  longer  continuance  in  the  world,  which  we  all  shall  find  to  be  so 
short  a  thoroughfare  to  the  place  of  our  eternal  abode :  and  while  I  live, 
I  desire  nothing  more  from  you,  than  the  consolation  of  observing  your 
devotion,  and  striving  together  with  me  in  your  prayers  for  your  own 
salvation.  And  when  1  am  dead  and  gone,  1  would  leave  behind  me, 
not  only  some  token  of  my  love  to  you ;  but  also  some  assistance  in  that 
way  of  your  duty,  wherein  you  are  to  follow  those  who  are  already  en- 
tered into  the  heavenly  glory. 

1  am  apt  to  think,  that  some  who  are  convinced  of  this  duty,  to  use 
daily  prayers,  and  who  also  feel  an  inclination  to  it,  and  some  disposed- 
ness  for  it  in  their  hearts,  may  yet  be  under  a  discouragement  for  want 
of  suitable  helps  in  a  readiness  to  discharge  the  work. — For  such,  alaa  ! 
is  the  dullness  and  indifferency  of  sinful  men  to  that  which  is  best  for 
them,  and  which  most  highly  concerns  them,  that  they  are  not  apt  to  be 
solicitous,  so  as  they  used  to  show  themselves  in  their  worldly  concerns, 
to  seek  out  after  the  provisions  and  conveniences  for  the  spiritual  life, 
unless  these  fall  directly  in  their  way,  and  are  set  just  before  them.  And 
therefore,  this  prayer-book  I  have  had  in  my  thoughts  to  provide,  and 
put  into  the  hands  of  some  of  the  poorer  sort ;  and,  without  imposing  up- 
on any,  I  would  also  move  such  able  friends  as  may  favour  the  design,  to 
lend  a  charitable  hand  in  assisting  to  furnish  more  of  these  poor  creatures, 
who,  by  the  help  of  such  a  gift,  might  be  put  in  a  way  to  get  the  best  and 
greatest  riches ;  but  I  shall  not  offer  to  disturb  any  that  are  in  the  posses- 
sion of  better  means  already ;  no,  let  them  go  on  with  the  use  of  them,  and 
God's  blessing  be  upon  them :  and  if  but  any  thing  here  should  be  found 
agreeable  and  useful  to  others,  they  are  at  liberty  to  collect  and  take 
what  they  will,  and  pass  over  the  rest.  For,  as  the  celebrated  Dr.  Ham- 
mond tells  us,  Prat.  Cat.  Lib.  3.  Sect.  2.  Ans.  5.  "  The  church  being 
obeyed  in  the  observation  of  the  prescribed  liturgy  in  public,  it  is  not 
supposed  by  our  church,  but  that  every  one  in  private  may  ask  his  own 
wants  in  what  form  of  words  he  shall  think  fit :  yet,  that  he  may  do  it 
fitly  and  reverently,  it  will  not  be  amiss  for  him  to  acquaint  himself  with 
the  several  addresses  to  God  which  the  Book  of  Psalms,  and  other  parts  of 
Holy  Writ,  and  other  helps  of  devotion,  will  afford  him,  either  to  use,  as 
he  finds  them  fit  for  the  present  purpose,  or  by  those  patterns  to  direct 
and  prepare  himself  to  do  the  like." 

Now,  may  this  poor  attempt  of  mine  be  an  invitation  to  some  of  my 
pious  and  learned  brethern  in  the  ministry,  to  set  out  some  better  enter- 
tainment for  their  people ;  and  I  shall  be  abundantly  satisfied  and  pleased 
to  see  the  thing  promoted,  and  still  further  improved  ;  though  my  whole 
performance  should  be  vacated  and  excluded,  to  make  room  for  otherg 
deserving  the  precedence.  In  the  mean  time,  may  a  blessing  from  above 
follow  these  small  endeavours  of  mine,  and  make  them  prosperous,  in  any 
measure,  to  help  your  devotion :  and  that  you  may  in  the  use  of  any 
prayers  here  set  before  you,  find  some  advantage  to  your  souls,  and  the 
daily  promotion  of  your  sanctification,  peace  and  salvation,  is  the  earnest 
desire  and  prayer  of 

Your  devoted  Servant, 

In  the  work  of  our  Lord, 

B. 


Postscript  to  the  Readers* 


BESIDES  the  addition  of  some  prayers  here,  more  than 
were  in  the  first  impression,  which  you  will  find  marked 
with  an  asterisk  in  the  contents ;  these  latter  editions  do 
give  me  the  opportunity  of  making-  some  corrections  to 
my  own,  and  I  hope  also  to  others'  better  satisfaction  $  yet 
have  I  held  my  hand  from  altering  much,  lest  the  book 
should  now  appear  another  thing  than  before,  to  the 
offence  of  any  that  have  been  purchasers  of  the  other ;  but 
the  perusers  who  are  observant,  may  perceive  here  so 
many  corrections  and  amendments,  as  will  give  some  ad- 
vantage to  such  as  shall  think  fit  to  make  themselves 
owners  of  this. 

I  should  have  enlarged  the  forms  for  families  in  several 
parts,  especially  in  those  pertaining  to  the  confessions  of 
sin ;  which  (as  an  excellent  bishop  of  this  church,  upon  the 
survey  of  this  book,  according  to  his  wise  and  humble  piety, 
was  pleased  to  give  me  his  sense)  need  more  to  be  insisted 
upon  than  commonly  we  find  $  but  that  I  feared  such  en- 
largements of  the  prayers,  might  hinder  many  families  from 
using  them  at  all :  and  though  now  I  was  solicited  again, 
to  hasten  another  review,  in  order  to  the  impression,  more 
additions  you  might  have  seen  throughout  the  book,  but 
that  I  should  thus  have  made  it  too  chargeable  for  some 
pockets,  and  too  bulky  for  any. 

The  many  emendations,  therefore,  which  intelligent  pe- 
rusers may  observe  in  this  new  edition  will  not  add  either 
to  the  size  or  price ;  but  only  make  some  things  more 
smooth  and  easy  to  those  of  inferior  capacity;  and  the 
intermixture  of  many  more  words  here  than  formerly,  may 
better  engage  the  attention,  and  quicken  the  sense  of  com- 
mon readers. 

May  it  please  God  to  give  the  perusers  of  these  helps 
serious  minds  and  praying  hearts,  the  good  intention,  and 
fervent  devotion,  to  make  the  fuel  here  prepared  flame  on 
the  altar  5  and  when  thy  soul,  reader,  is  so  raised  heaven- 
ward, send  up  one  kind  petition  for  his  saving  mercy  on 
the  poor  unworthy  Author. 


CONTENTS. 


Page 

A  PRAYER  for  Devotion,  and. a  right  frame  of  Spirit  in  the 
Worship  of  God,  -  -  15 

A  Family  Prayer,  in  the  order  of  the  Lord's  Prayer,  17 

Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family,       - 
Another  Morning  Prayer  for  a  family, 
A  third  Morning  Prayer,  ... 

A  fourth  Morning  Prayer,          - 
A  fifth  Morning  Prayer, 

A  sixth  Morning  Prayer,       .... 
A  seventh  Morning  Prayer,  .  -  -  .37 

Evening  Prayer  fov  a  Family, 

Another  Evening  Prayer,  -  -  -  42 

A  third  Evening  Prayer,         -  •  -  •  46 

A  fourth  Evening  Prayer,  •  -  -  49 

A  fifth  Evening  Prayer,          ...  54 

A  sixth  Evening  Prayer,  -  -  -  58 

A  seventh  Evening  Prayer,  .    -  -  -  63 

Morning  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day,  -  -  66 

Another  Morning  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day,         -  69 

Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day,  -  -         72 

Another  Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day,         -  76 

A  Prayer  for  any  intermediate  time  of  the  Lord's  Day,  -         80 

A  Confession  of  the  Sins  forbidden,  with  Prayer  foi  Grace  to  per- 
form the  Duties  enjoined  in  the  Commandments :  Preparatory  to 
the  Sacrament ;  or  at  any  time  of  Humiliation,  83 

A  Prayer  before  the  Sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper,  -         89 

A  Prayer  for  Grace  to  resign,  and  give  up  ourselves  to  God,  93 

*  Some  devout    Ejaculations,  and  Elevations  of  the  Soul  before 
receiving  at  the  Lord's  Table,  -  -  -  95 

Thanksgiving  and  Prayer  after  the  Sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper,     98 
Some  devout  Ejaculations  and  Elevations  of  the  Soul  after  receiving 

at  the  Lord's  Table,  -       100 

Prayer  and  Humiliation  for  a  public  Fast-Day,  -  103 

*  Confession  and  Prayer  for  the  Evening  of  a  public  Fast-Day,  109 
An  Addition  in  Time  of  War,         -                                                    -       114 

in  Time  of  Infection,  -  -  116 

in  time  of  Famine,  -  -  -       1 17 

*  Devout  Application  to  the  Lord  in  time  of  great  Thunder,  or 
some  terrible  tempest,        -  -  -  -  118 

— — -  in  Time  of  any  sore  and  grievous  Calamity,      121 

• under   any  great    Difficulties    and   arduous 

Affairs,  ...  .  122 
A  Prayer  for  Temporal  Blessings,  *  -  -  -  123 
for  Rain,  ....  124 


CONTENTS. 

Pag« 

A  Prayer  for  fair  Weather,                     ...  125 

Prayer  and  Praise  for  a  public  Thanksgiving  Day,        -                -  126 

Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings,                   .                 .  129 

— for  Rain,                 ....  130 

*           for  fair  Weather,            -                -                •  ibid. 

«. for  Cessation  of  Infection,                       *                 .  131 

for  the  Restoration  of  Plenty,         -                -  ibid. 

-"                        for  Victory  over  our  Enemies,                 -                •  132 

, for  Peace,         -                                  -                 -  133 

*  Thanksgiving  after  a  safe  and  good  Journey,  •  -       134 
Thanksgiving  for  Preservation  and  Deliverance  from  Dangers  and 

Troubles,  -  -  135 

Thanksgiving  and  Prayer  after  a  Recovery  out  of  a  dangerous 

Sickness,  -  -  -  138 

A  Prayer  for  Blessing,  Direction,  Help  and  good  Success,  in  any  great 

Enterprize,  -  -  -  -  140 

A  Prayer  when  going  abroad,  -  -  •  142 

• for  Illumination  and  Knowledge,  -  .  143 

*  for  Repentance,        -  -  .  .  145 

for  Faith  and  Trust  in  Cod,  ...       143 

A  Prayer  for  Power  to  live  by  Faith  upon  Christ  and  the  Divine 

Promises,             •                 -                •  •                .               149 

A  Prayer  for  the  Divine  Assistance,  ...       154 

— —  for  Sincerity,              ...»  155 

for  Humility,                  -  -                -                .157 

for  Mindfulness  of  God's  Presence,        -  -              159 

for  Tenderness  of  Heart,  -                -                 .160 

. for  the  Fear  of  God,                -  -                -              162 

for  the  Love  of  God,  -                -                .164 

for  Hope,                -                 -  -                 .               166 

for  Charity,                      .  .                .                 .168 

for  Unity,                -                -  -                .               169 

for  Meekness  and  Peaceableness,  -                .171 

•  under  Abuses  and  Provocations, 

under  Infamy  and  Disgrace,            -                 -  .175 

for  our  Enemies,  ... 

under  Crosses  and  Disappointments  in  our  Affairs,  -       178 

under  Losses  and  Damage  in  our  Goods  and  Estates,  179 

•        under  confinement  and  Loss  of  Liberty,         -  -       180 

under  sad  Accidents  and  Disasters  falling  on  the  Body,          182 

for  a  blind  Man,              -                 .                 •  -183 

under  grievous  Pains, 

under  dangerous  Sickness, 

under  lingering  Sickness,  •  189 

—  for  one  that  is  stupified  or  light-headed,        -  .191 

for  a  sick  Child, 

for  a  dying  Man  past  Hope  of  Recovery, 

upon  the  News  of  other's  Death, 

upon  the  Death  of  our  dear  Friends, 

for  Patience, 

for  Preparation  and  Readiness  to  die,  • 

in  public  Commotions  and  Distractions,  -  202 


CONTENTS,  xiii 

Pupa 

A  Prayer  in  Time  of  threatening  Dangers,                     -  204 
— —  upon  the  Remembrance  of  foi  mer  Sins,                  .  205 
— —  under  Fears  and  Doubts  of  our  spiritual  Condition,      .  207 
under  the  Dread  of  God's  Wrath,  and  everlasting  Damna- 
tion,                                                         -  209 

under  strong  Temptations,                               -  210 

for  Chastity,            -                 -                 -                 -  212 

for  the  Mortification  of  all  fleshly  Lusts,         -                -  214 

before  the  Hearing  of  God's  Word,         -                 -  216 

after  Hearing  of  the  Word,             -                 -                 -  217 

for  increase  of  Grace,                                -  218 

,  .               for  quickening  Grace,                      ...  2'20 

— *tf for  Ability  to  acquit  ourselves  as  we  ought  in  our  several 

Places  and  Relations,                                                       -  221 

for  Grace  to  serve  the  Lord  with  Gladness,  222 

— -4- for  Skill  to  carry  ourselves  aright  among  all  with  whom 

we  are  concerned  in  the  World,           -                 -  224 

for  Grace  to  use  our  Speech  aright,                -                 -  226 

The  convinced  Sinner's  Prayer,  -  -  228 
A  Prayer  for  the  troubled  Soul  ...  232 
for  the  enjoyment  of  God's  gracious  Presence  and  divine 

Communion,                                  ...  234 

.        for  heavenly  Comforts,                             •                 «-  237 

Prayer  and  Praise  for  a  converted  Sinner,                      -                 -  239 

A  Prayer  after  a  Relapse  into  Sin,                            •                 -  242 

Another  humbling  Office  under  any  foul  Fall,               •                 •  244 

Thanksgiving  for  Recovery  after  a  fall  into  Sin,                      -  247 

for  Spiritual  Victory,                                  -                 -  249 

A  Prayer  for  greater  Concernment  and  Diligence  for  the  Soul,  and 

the  things  of  another  World,      -  250 
— —  for  Faithfulness  and  Constancy  in  the  Profession  of  our 

Religion,                      -                                                      -  253 

•n for  Zeal  and  Activity  in  the  Practice  of  our  Religion,  254 

.  against  Worldliness,  and  for  a  heavenly  Mind,                -  257 

for  Perseverance  and  Grace  to  endure  to  the  End,  259 

in  Prosperity,              -                                                          -  260 

for  the  Enlargement  and  Prosperity  of  the  Church,  262 

for  the  Reformed  Churches  abroad,              -                 -  264 

for  our  Church,                       ...  266 

The  Magistrate's  Prayer,               -                 -                 -  263 
A  Prayer  for  all  our"  Bishops,  Pastors,  and  Ministers,              -  27 1 
The  Author's  Prayer  for  himself  as  a  Minister,               -                 -  273 
*  Prayer  for  a  Blessing  on  the  Societies  confederate  to  promote  Re- 
formation of  Manners,                  ....  275 
A  Prayer  for  our  Benefactors,                 ...  273 
•          for  our  pious  Friends,                       ...  279 
for  our  Friend,  whose  Soul  we  fear  to  be  in  a  dangerous 

Condition,                                      ...  280 

for  the  Unconverted,               ...  282 

• for  all  that  desire  our  Prayers,         ...  286 

for  a  Blessing  on  our  intended  Marriage,                -  287 

The  Husband's  Prayer,         ....  288 

B 


xftv  CONTENTS. 

Pag« 

The  Wife's  Prayer,  *  289 

A  Prayer  for  a  Woman  in  Travail,  -  •  »  291 

Thanksgiving  after  safe  Delivery,  *  ibid. 

Prayer  for  our  Children,  --  -  •  292 

for  our  Parents,  ....  294 

The  Widow's  Prayer,  ....  ibid. 

The  Orphan's  Prayer,  -  -  -  -  296 

The  Aged's  Prayer,  -  -  -  297 

The  Child's  Prayer,  -  -  -  -  -  299 

A  Prayer  to  be  used  by  the  Rich  and  Great,  -  -  300 

to  be  used  by  such  as  are  Poor  and  Low  in  the  World,  302 

The  Master  of  a  Family,  his  Prayer,  -  -  304 

The  Servant's  Prayer,  -  -  -  -  306 

The  Soldier's  Prayer,  -  -  -  .308 

A  Prayer  for  the  Melancholy  and  Dejected,  .  310 

*  A  Prayer  for  the  Lunatic  and  Distracted,  -  -  3H 

A  Prayer  for  insensible  Sinners,  -  -  -  .313 

The  condemned  Malefactor's  Prayer,  .  .  315 

Prayer  and  Praise  upon  the  Occasion  of  our  Blessed  Saviour's  coming 

into  the  World,  -  -  -  -  318 

A  Prayer  on  the  Occasion  of  his  Death,  ...  320 
Prayer  and  Praise  on  the  Occasion  of  his  Resurrection,  .  323 

Prayer  and  Praise  on  the  Occasion  of  his  Ascension,  .  .  324 

A  Prayer  on  the  Occasion  of  the  coming  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  325 

• on  the  Commemoration  of  any  Saint,  -  .  326 

A  Soliloquy  for  the  pious  Soul's  Solace,  by  way  of  Paraphrase  on  the 

Creed,  .....  328 


[WIVBESIT7J 

X 
RS 

AND 

OFFICES  OF  DEVOTION. 


A  prayer  for    devotion,    and  a  Right  Frame  of 
Spirit  in  the  Worship  of  God. 

OMOST  High  and  Holy,  Blessed  and  Glori- 
ous Lord  my  God !  Thou  wilt  be  sanctified 
in  them  that  come  nigh  thee ;  and  thou  art  great- 
ly to  be  feared,  and  to  be  had  in  continual  reve- 
rence of  all  that  are  about  thee.  Be  pleased  to 
sanctify  my  heart  with  thy  grace,  that  I  may 
sanctify  the  Lord  God  in  my  heart;  and  so  draw 
nigh  unto  thee,  that  thou  mayest  draw  nigh  un- 
to me :  and  in  such  manner  pour  out  my  heart 
before  thee,  that  thou  mayest  pour  down  thj 
heavenly  blessings  and  favours  upon  me. 

I  desire,  O  my  God,  to  meet  thee  in  thy  ways; 
and  in  compliance  with  thy  gracious  appointment, 
I  fall  down  and  worship  here  at  thy  footstool,  in 
the  name  and  mediation  of  thy  dear  Son.  For 
O  how  unworthy  am  I  to  come  into  thy  holy  pre- 
sence !  And  how  unable  of  myself  to  perform 
any  duties  of  service  meet  to  be  rendered  unto 
the  heavenly  Majesty!  O  let  thy  great  mercy 
overlook  my  unworthiness;  and,  by  thy  powerful 
grace,  keep  me  from  every  offensive  thing  that 


16  A  Prayer  for  Devotion. 

would  make  my  prayers  sin  and  abomination  to 
the  Lord.  And  as  thou  hast  made  me  sensible 
of  my  duty,  and  of  my  own  insufficiency  to  dis- 
charge it  as  I  ought,  so  may  thy  good  Spirit  help 
my  infirmities,  and  increase  my  abilities  for  thy 
service;  that  without  sinful  dulness  or  distrac- 
tions, I  may  worship  thee  in  spirit  and  in  truth; 
and  serve  thee  with  reverence  and  godly  fear: 
yea,  with  all  readiness  and  love,  arid  delight  in 
approaching  unto  God. 

Instruct  me,  gracious  Lord,  in  the  knowledge 
of  thy  will;  and  assist  me  in  the  way  of  my  duty: 
that  I  may  both  understand  what  is  thy  pleasure 
concerning  me;  and  also  may  find  grace  sufficient 
to  perform  it.  O  make  me  such  a  spiritual  wor- 
shipper as  thou  dost  seek;  and  my  service  such 
a  spiritual  sacrifice  as  thou  wilt  accept. 

Help  me,  my  strength  and  my  Redeemer,  to 
offer  up  my  heart  and  myself,  together  with  my 
prayers  and  addresses,  unto  thee :  that  1  may  not 
be  rash  \,  ith  my  mouth,  nor  hasty  in  my  heart, 
to  utter  any  thing  rudely  before  thee;  nor  draw 
nigh  to  thee,  with  my  lips  and  body,  when  my 
heart  is  far  from  thee :  but  that  heart  and  soul, 
and  all  that  is  within  me,  may  be  taken  up  in  a 
devout,  and  faithful,  and  affectionate  attendance 
upon  thee. 

And  thou  that  hearest  prayers,  O  quicken  me, 
that  I  may  call  upon  thy  name.  And  let  me  re- 
ceive such  grace  from  thee,  as  may  enable  me  to 
perform  acceptable  service  unto  thee;  through 
the  beloved  of  my  soul,  my  only  Saviour  and  pre- 
vailing Advocate,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


The  Lord's  Prayer  in  Paraphrase.  17 

A    Family    Prayer,    in   the    Order    of  our   JLord*$ 
Prayer. 

OGOD,  the  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
by  eternal  generation:  the  Father  of  all 
things,  by  temporal  creation:  and  the  Father  of 
thy  people,  by  adoption  and  spiritual  regenera- 
tion !  what  manner  of  love  is  this,  that  we,  rebels 
against  heaven,  slaves  of  satan,  and  children  of 
wrath,  shall  be  made  the  children  of  the  Most 
High,  and  heirs  of  everlasting  glory!  We  are 
thine,  O  Lord,  for  thou  hast  made  us  out  of  no- 
thing, and  looked  upon  us  in  our  blood,  to  set  us 
up  again,  after  wre  had  destroyed  ourselves. 
Thou  art  in  heaven,  O  that  we  may  in  heart  and 
mind,  thither  ascend;  and  with  all  lowliness  wor- 
ship at  the  footstool  of  thy  glorious  Majesty. 
Thou  art  our  Father:  O  that  we  may  with  trust 
and  delight,  as  children,  draw  nigh  unto  thee : 
who  hast  all  fulness  both  of  power  and  mercy, 
to  do  for  us.  And  may  we  also  love  as  brethren, 
and  still  hold  together  as  dear  children  of  the 
same  heavenly  Father. 

And  O  that  all  the  world  may  give  thee,  our 
God,  the  glory  due  to  thy  great  name!  that  thou 
mayest  be  more  known,  and  feared,  and  loved, 
and  honoured,  by  us,  and  by  all  men,  as  our  su- 
preme Lord,  and  as  our  chiefest  good :  that  we 
may  glorify  thee  as  we  ought,  in  our  thoughts 
and  desires,  and  in  our  words  and  ways  ! 

O  that  the  kingdom  of  sin  and  satan  may  be 
still  more  and  more  weakened,  till  they  be 
utterly  destroyed!  That  all  the  powers  on  earth 
may  use  for  thee  the  authority  which  they  have 
received  from  thee!  That  all  the  kingdoms  of 
B  2 


18  The  LorcTs  Prayer  in  Paraphrase. 

the  world  may  become  the  kingdoms  of  our 
Lord,  and  of  his  Christ ;  and  Jerusalem  be  made 
the  joy  and  praise  of  the  whole  earth!  O  that 
Christ  may  dwell  and  rule  in  our  hearts  by  his 
spirit  and  grace ;  and  make  us  a  willing  people, 
the  faithful  subjects  of  his  holy  kingdom;  and 
still  reign  over  us  here,  till  wre  are  made  fit  to 
live  and  reign  with  him  and  all  his  redeemed,  in 
the  heavenly  glory  for  ever.  O  thou  blessed  and 
only  Potentate !  let  thy  kingdom  come,  so 
powerfully  into  us,  that  thy  will  may  be  done  still 
faithfully  and  cheerfully  by  us. 

And  may  thy  will  and  word,  O  Lord,  and  the 
way  of  thy  salvation,  be  every  where  known  up- 
on earth.  Let  the  light  of  thy  gospel  shine  and 
prevail,  arid  win  more  proselytes  daily  through- 
out the  world.  O  send  the  means  of  grace,  where 
they  are  not ;  and  make  them  prosperous  and 
successful  where  they  are.  Let  the  will  of  thy 
word  and  will  of  our  God,  be  the  rule  of  our 
lives,  to  guide  and  sway  us  in  all  our  ways. 
Make  us  more  conformable  to  thy  will  in  all  that 
thou  requirest  of  us;  and  more  submissive  to  thy 
•will  in  all  that  thou  layest  upon  us.  Yea,  make  us 
pleased  with  whatever  is  thy  pleasure;  and  great- 
ly to  love  thy  word,  and  delight  to  do  thy  will, 
and  joyfully  and  cheerfully  to  serve  thee;  as  thy 
glorious  angels  and  saints  above,  whose  heaven  it 
is  to  please  and  enjoy  the  Lord. 

And,  till  we  are  fitted  for  the  better  glorious 
life  to  come,  give  us,  O  Father,  of  thy  gracious 
bounty,  all  things  needful  and  convenient  for  our 
present  being  here.  Preserve  us  from  all  the 
snares  and  dangers  that  attend  both  the  pros- 
perous and  the  afflicted  state.  When  we  have 


The  Lord's  Prayer  in  Paraphrase.  19 

this  world's  good,  O  that  we  may  use  it  wiseljr 
and  piously,  to  thy  glory :  and  whenever  thou 
takest  it  from  us,  make  us  contented,  and  patient, 
and  thankful;  and  the  more  intent  upon  that 
good  which  shall  never  be  taken  away.  O  good 
God !  we  beg,  that  still  we  may  be  in  that  state 
of  body  which  thou  knowest  to  be  best  for  our 
eouls ;  and  that  all  which  we  have  in  this  life, 
may  tend  and  help  to  speed  us  to  the  blessed 
life  immortal. 

We  are  ashamed  and  sorry  that  we  have  so 
much  and  so  long  dishonoured  thy  blessed 
name  ;  disobeyed  thy  holy  word,  and  abused  thy 
rich  mercy.  We  desire  to  return  and  to  be  re- 
conciled to  our  God;  to  be  humble  and  penitent 
for  our  sins,  and  to  entreat  thy  gracious  favour 
in  Jesus  Christ,  for  the  pardon  of  them.  Forgive 
us,  we  beseech  thee,  O  Father  of  mercies,  for 
his  sake,  all  the  sins  that  ever  we  have  com- 
mitted against  thee ;  especially,  we  beg  to  be 
discharged  from  those  wasting  and  presumptuous 
sins,  committed  against  the  strivings  of  thy  Spirit, 
and  the  checks  of  our  own  enlightened  mindsf 
that  have  made  the  saddest  breaches  upon  our 
peace,  and  filled  our  souls  with  the  dread  of  thy 
wrath.  O  give  us  tokens  for  good,  to  persuade 
and  assure  our  hearts  that  thou  hast  such  mercy 
in  store  for  us.  And  incline  our  hearts,  O  Lord, 
to  forgive,  and  to  be  merciful,  as  we  need  to  be 
forgiven,  and  as  we  desire  to  obtain  mercy. 

And,  that  iniquities  may  not  prevail  against 
us,  to  spoil  us  for  the  future,  subdue  them,  O  God 
of  all  grace,  by  the  power  of  thy  Holy  Spirit  j 
and  never  suffer  us  to  be  tempted  above  the 
strength  wherewith  thy  grace  shall  supplj  u*. 


20  The  LorcTs  Prayer  in  Paraphrase. 

Make  us  wary  to  avoid  all  the  temptations  we 
can,  and  strong  in  the  Lord  to  overcome  what 
we  must  encounter.  We  are  poor,  frail  crea- 
tures: but  thou,  O  Lord  Almighty,  art  stronger 
than  the  strong  one :  O  do  thou  protect  us,  we 
beseech  thee,  by  thy  powerful  aids :  and  so  keep 
us  from  falling,  that  we  may  never  be  made  a 
prey  to  the  cruel  murderer  of  souls;  nor  be  de- 
livered into  those  bitter  pains  of  eternal  death, 
which  are  the  sad  wages  of  our  sins ;  but  may 
find  a  way  to  escape  every  snare,  and  be  pre- 
served safe  to  thy  heavenly  kingdom. 

For  thine  is  the  kingdom :  O  Lord  most  high! 
thou  art  the  King  of  all  the  world ;  and  happy 
are  they  who  are  under  the  conduct  of  thy  good 
Spirit,  as  the  willing  subjects  of  thy  spiritual 
kingdom.  We  desire  and  beg  that  we  may  all 
be  found  of  that  happy  number.  Save,  Lord* 
and  let  the  King  of  heaven  hear  us  when  we  call. 

We  ask  great  things  at  thy  hands,  but  not  too 
great  for  the  Almighty  God  to  grant :  for  thine 
is  the  power:  and  thou  art  able  to  do  for  us  ex- 
ceedingly abundantly,  even  above  all  that  wre 
ask  or  think:  O  reveal  thy  glorious  arm,  to  do 
the  things  worthy  of  God,  which  none  but  thy 
blessed  Self  can  do;  in  forgiving,  and  healing, 
and  helping  us,  who  have  undone  ourselves,  and 
are  hopeless  and  helpless  in  ourselves. 

Thine  is  the  glory :  O  God,  and  such  are  the 
wonders  of  thy  grace,  to  get  thee  glory  in  the 
salvation  of  those  that  were  lost. 

Therefore,  though  we  are  exceedingly  guilty 
and  utterly  unworthy,  yet  we  do  pray  and  hopef 
that  thou  wilt  glorify  thy  mercy,  to  remember  us 
in  our  low  estate ;  and  to  relieve  us  in  all  our 


Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family.  21 

wants  and  straits,  who  forsake  every  refuge  else 
to  come  to  thee,  O  blessed  God,  alone;  and  have 
all  our  expectation  from  thee ;  and  have  all  our 
dependence  upon  thee ;  trusting  only  in  thy  gra- 
cious goodness,  through  the  all-sufficient  merits 
and  mediation  of  our  blessed  Redeemer ;  and 
looking  for  the  mercy  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
to  eternal  life. 

And  to  thee,  O  great  and  glorious  Lord  our 
God,  whose  kingdom  ruleth  over  all;  to  thee 
who  dost  whatever  thou  pleasest  in  heaven  and 
in  earth ;  to  thee  who  showeth  forth  all  thy  glo- 
ry to  the  blessed  that  are  in  thy  presence,  be 
glory  in  the  highest,  and  all  thanks  and  praise 
ascribed  of  us,  and  of  all  the  world,  for  ever 
and  ever.  Jlmen. 

Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

OLORD,  the  blessed  God  of  our  salvation ! 
thou  art  the  hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the 
earth,  upon  whom  the  eyes  of  all  do  wait :  for 
thou  givest  unto  all  life,  and  breath,  and  all 
things.  In  thee  we  ever  live,  and  move  and  are; 
and  upon  thee  we  continually  do  depend  for  all 
the  good  that  ever  we  have,  or  hope  for.  Still 
thou  takest  care  of  us,  and  watchest  for  good 
over  us ;  even  in  our  rest  and  sleep,  when  we 
have  not  so  much  as  any  thoughts  of  caring  for 
ourselves;  and  daily  thou  renewest  to  us  our 
lives,  and  thy  mercies;  every  morning  giving  us 
new  occasions  still  for  thy  praise,  and  our  thank- 
fulness. And  thou  hast  given  us  the  assurance 
of  thy  word,  that  if  we  commit  our  affairs  to  thee, 
and  acknowledge  thee  in  all  our  ways,  thou  wilt 


22  Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

establish  our  thoughts,  and  direct  our  path. 
And  therefore  we  desire,  O  Lord,  still  to  put 
ourselves  under  thy  gracious  conduct,  and  thy 
fatherly  protection;  and  to  beg  thy  heavenly 
guidance  and  blessing,  and  assistance  of  thy 
good  Spirit,  to  choose  our  inheritance  for  us; 
and  to  dispose  of  us,  and  of  all  that  concerns  us, 
to  the  glory  of  thy  name. 

O  Lord,  withdraw  not  thy  tender  mercies  from 
us,  nor  the  comforts  of  thy  presence,  nor  the  as- 
sistance of  thy  Spirit ;  for  our  great  contempt 
and  manifold  abuses  of  all  such  grace  and  good- 
ness. Never  punish  our  past  sins,  by  giving  us 
over  to  the  love  and  power  of  our  sins;  but  give 
us  true  penitent  hearts  for  all  the  evils  committed 
by  us ;  and  thy  merciful  discharge  from  all  the 
guilt  that  lies  upon  us.  And  grant  us,  O  good 
Goa,  the  comfortable  sense  and  apprehension 
of  thy  gracious  acceptance  of  us,  and  thy  merci- 
ful intentions  towards  us  in  the  Son  of  thy  love, 
the  Lover  of  our  souls :  that  our  souls  may  bless 
thee,  and  all  that  is  within  us  may  praise  thy 
holy  name. 

And  O  that  we  may  find  the  joy  of  the  Lord 
to  be  our  strength,  to  enable  us  against  our  sins; 
especially  the  sins  to  which  we  are  most  addict- 
ed, and  whereof  we  are  in  greatest  danger;  and 
to  make  us  also  more  ready  to  every  good  work, 
and  better  disposed  for  all  the  duties  of  piety, 
justice,  charity  and  sobriety,  which  we  owe  to 
thee  our  Gcd,  to  our  neighbour  and  ourselves: 
that  herein  we  may  exercise  ourselves  to  have 
always  the  conscience  void  of  offence  towards 
God,  and  towards  men.  O  help  us  to  walk  cir- 
cumspectly, not  as  fools,  but  as  wise;  carefully 


Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family.  23 

redeeming  the  time  that  we  have  lost,  and  con- 
scientiously improving  all  those  seasons,  and 
means  of  grace,  which  thou  art  pleased  to  put 
into  our  hands,  for  the  best  profit  and  advantage 
of  our  souls.  And  while  we  are  upon  earth,  O 
give  us  all  things  needful  and  convenient  for  our 
present  pilgrimage;  and  sanctify  to  us  all  our 
enjoyments,  and  all  estates  that  we  go  through, 
and  all  events  that  now  befall  us;  till,  through 
the  merits  of  thy  Son,  and  the  multitude  of  thy 
mercies,  we  are  conducted  safe  to  be  ever  with 
the  Lord.  Amidst  all  our  other  affairs  in  this 
world,  O  let  us  never  forget  or  neglect  the  one 
thing  needful;  but  be  in  greatest  care  so  to  de- 
mean ourselves  every  day,  as  may  forward  our 
comfortable  accounts  in  the  great  day  of  thy  ap- 
pearing and  glory. 

O  gracious  Father !  keep  us  we  beseech  thee, 
this  day  in  thy  fear  and  favour;  and  help  us  to 
live  to  thy  honour  arid  glory.  If  thou  guide  us 
not,  we  shall  run  into  errors;  if  thou  preserve  us 
not,  we  shall  fall  into  dangers  :  O  let  thy  good 
providence  be  our  defence  and  security;  and  let 
thy  holy  Spirit  be  our  guide  and  counsellor  in  all 
our  ways.  And  grant  that  we  may  take  the 
ways  and  courses  agreeable  to  thy  will,  and  ac- 
ceptable in  thy  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ;  in 
whose  sacred  name  and  words  we  close  up  these 
our  imperfect  requests  to  thee,  Our  Father,  &c. 

Let  thy  grace,  O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  thy  love, 
O  heavenly  Father,  thy  comfortable  fellowship, 
O  holy  blessed  Spirit,  be  with  us,  and  with  all 
whom  we  ought  to  beg  thy  mercy  for  in  our 
prayers,  this  day,  and  for  ever  more.  Jlmcn* 


24  Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

Another  Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

OLORD,  thou  art  the  God  whose  we  are, 
and  whom  we  ought  to  serve,  with  all  the 
endowments  and  abilities  for  thy  service,  where- 
with thou  hast  blessed  us.  For  thou  hast  laid  up- 
on us  all  the  obligations  of  thy  laws  ;  and  all  the 
endearments  of  thy  love,  to  be  faithful  in  the 
covenant  of  our  God;  and  to  abound  in  the  work 
of  the  Lord.  And  we  desire  to  humble  our  sin- 
ful selves  here  before  thee,  that  our  lives  have 
been  so  unserviceable  to  thee,  and  so  full  of  pro- 
vocation against  thee;  that  the  dishonour  which 
,we  have  done  thee,  O  Lord,  has  by  many  de- 
grees, exceeded  all  the  service;  that  we  have 
lived  to  ourselves,  more  than  to  the  Lord  and 
Giver  of  our  lives;  and  we  have  served  our  own 
lusts  and  pleasures  more  than  thy  holy  blessed 
will;  which  is  the  rule  of  all  righteousness,  and 
in  the  performance  whereof,  there  is  the  greatest 
reward.  O  how  we  have  disbelieved  thy  truths, 
disobeyed  thy  commands,  disregarded  thy  pro- 
mises and  threats  !  and  resisted  and  defeated  all 
thy  gracious  methods  to  reclaim  us  from  the  evil 
of  our  ways,  and  to  bring  us  over  entirely  to  thy- 
self. 

We  have  sinned  against  thee,  our  God,  to  the 
infinite  wrong  and  damage  of  our  own  souls,  and 
by  our  sins  we  have  spoiled  and  destroyed  our- 
selves ;  but  it  is  not  in  us  to  recover  and  save 
ourselves.  No :  in  thee  alone  is  all  our  help. 
Yea,  thou  hast  laid  help  upon  one  that  is  mighty 
and  able  to  save  to  the  uttermost  all  that  come 
to  God  through  him :  through  whom  thou  hast 
encouraged  us  to  come  boldly  to  thy  throne  of 


Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family.  2.3 

grace,  that  we  may  obtain  mercj,  and  find  grace 
to  help  in  every  time  of  need.  In  him,  therefore, 
we  beg,  Lord,  that  thou  wilt  be  reconciled  to  us, 
and  at  peace  with  us;  as  a  Father  of  mercies, 
and  a  God  of  consolation. 

And  for  his  sake,  enable  us  also,  we  beseech 
thee,  to  demean  ourselves  as  becomes  the  chil- 
dren of  God,  the  redeemed  of  the  Lord,  and  the 
members  and  followers  of  Jesus  Christ.  O  put 
such  principles  of  grace  and  holiness  into  our 
hearts,  as  may  make  us  to  hate  all  iniquity,  and 
every  false  way.  And  put  thy  spirit  within  us, 
causing  us  to  walk  in  thy  statutes,  and  to  keep 
thy  judgments,  and  to  do  them.  Nor  only  lay 
thy  commands  upon  us,  but  be  pleased,  O 
Lord,  to  enable  us  for  the  performance  of  every 
duty  required  of  us.  And  so  engage  our  hearts 
to  thyself,  that  we  may  make  it  our  meat  and 
drink  to  do  thy  will:  and  with  enlarged  hearts, 
run  the  way  of  thy  commands.  O  make  our  ser- 
vices acceptable  to  thee  while  we  live,  and  our 
souls  ready  for  thee  when  we  die.  And  as  long 
as  we  are  in  this  world,  keep  us,  O  Lord  our 
God,  from  the  evil  of  it,  and  from  the  snares  and 
dangers  which  thou  knowest  we  are  continually 
exposed  to  in  it.  O  make  our  passage  safe  and 
sure,  through  all  the  changes,  troubles,  tempta- 
tions, and  various  conditions  of  this  mortal  life, 
to  the  unchangeable  glories  and  felicities,  of  life 
everlasting. 

Be  merciful  to  us,  good  Lord,  and  bless  us, 
and  keep  us  this  day,  in  all  our  ways,  and  in  all 
our  lawful  designs  and  undertakings:  and  may 
we  take  nothing  in  hand,  but  what  is  warranted 

in  thy  word.     O  let  us  be  in  the  fear  of  'the 

-  • 


OP  THK 


26  Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

Lord  all  the  day  long;  let  thy  fear  be  ever  before 
our  eyes  to  restrain  us  from  the  things  provoking 
to  our  God,  and  destructive  to  our  souls.  And 
let  thy  love  abound  in  our  hearts,  and  sweHly 
and  ^powerfully  constrain  us  to  all  faithful  stnd 
cheerful  obedience,  acceptable  in  thy  si^ht, 
through  him  that  has  loved  and  redeemed  us; 
even  the  Lord  our  righteousness;  in  whose  blrss- 
ed  name,  and  the  words  of  prayer  which  him- 
self has  taught  us,  we  continue  praying,  Our 
Father,  &c. 

The  blessing  of  God  Almighty,  Father,  Son 
and  Holy  Ghost,  be  with  us,  and  with  all  fliat 
belong  to  us,  this  day,  and  for  evermore.  Amen. 


Jl  third  Morning  Prayer. 

OLORD  God,  merciful  and  gracious,  long 
suffering,  and  abundant  in  goodness  and 
truth!  Thou  keepest  mercy  for  thousands,  par- 
donest  iniquity,  transgression  and  sin,  and  dost 
not  retain  thy  anger  for  ever,  because  Ihou 
delightest  in  mercy.  How  excellent  is  thy  lov- 
ing kindness,  O  God!  therefore  do  the  sons  of 
men  put  their  trust  under  the  shadow  of  thy 
wings.  And  therefore  do  we  desire  still  to  'ook 
up  to  that  bountiful  hand  of  thine,  from  whence 
we  evermore  have  received  all  our  good  th  ngs. 
O  Lord  our  God!  be  thou  pleased  to  look  do\\n 
mercifully  upon  us,  and  be  gracious  and  favoura- 
ble to  us,  as  thou  usest  to  be  unto  those  that  love 
thy  name.  O  look  not  upon  the  sin  of  our  na- 
ture, nor  the  sins  of  our  hearts  and  lives;  \\hirh 
are  more  than  we  ran  remember,  and  greater 
than  we  can  express;  and  such  as  make  us  seem 


Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family.  27 

vile,  even  in  our  own  eyes,  and  so  highly  guilty 
b  »fore  thy  holy  Majesty,  that  it  is  of%  the  Lord's 
mercies  we  are  not  consumed,  because  thy  com- 
p.issions  fail  not.  But  behold  us  in  mercy, 
through  the  merits  and  mediation  of  thy  Son 
our  Saviour,  who  did  no  sin,  and  was  manifested 
that  he  might  take  away  our  sins:  by  whom  il  is 
that  we  have  this  access  to  the  Majesty  on  high, 
and  encouragement  to  come  into  thy  presence, 
to  ask  what  we  need,  and  what  thou  aboundest 
•with,  and  art  inclinable  to  make  thy  poor  crea- 
tures happy  in  the  enjoyment  of. 

And  seeing  there  is  in  Christ  Jesus  an  infinite 
fulness  of  all  that  ever  we  can  want  or  wish  to 
make  us  holy,  and  to  make  us  most  blessed 
eternally:  O  that  we  may  all  receive  of  his  ful- 
ness grace  sufficient  for  us;  to  pardon  our  sins 
and  subdue  our  iniquities;  to  justify  our  persons, 
and  to  sanctify  our  souls;  and  to  complete  upon 
our  hearts  and  lives  that  holy  renovating  change, 
Avhich  may  still  more  and  more  transform  us  into 
the  blessed  image  after  which  thou  didst  create 
us ;  and  make  us  still  more  meet  to  be  partakers 
of  the  inheritance  of  thy  saints  in  light. 

And  teach  us,  OLord  our  God,  to  use  this  world 
without  abusing  it,  and  to  enjoy  the  things  of  it, 
without  loosing  our  part  in  thy  love,  which  is  better 
than  life.  Whatever  we  have  of  the  world,  O 
may  we  have  the  same  with  thy  leave  and  love, 
sanctified  to  us  by  the  word  of  God,  and  prayer; 
and  by  the  right  employment  and  improvement 
thereof  to  thy  glory,  who  art  the  gracious  Giver 
of  all  our  good  things.  And  whatsoever  we  want 
of  the  things  of  this  life,  O  Lord  our  heavenly 
Father,  leave  us  not  destitute  of  any  of  those 


28  Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

things  that  accompany  salvation,  but  adorn  our 
souls  with  all  such  graces  of  thy  holy  Spirit,  as 
may  enable  us  to  adorn  the  doctrine  of  God  our 
Saviour  in  all  things,  by  such  a  conversation  as 
does  become  it. 

Help  us,  O  gracious  Lord,  in  the  whole  of  our 
duty  to  thee  our^God;  and  also  in  the  discharge 
of  all  relative  duties  which  we  owe  to  men, 
whether  superiors,  equals,  or  inferiors,  all  with 
whom  we  have  our  conversation  in  the  world: 
that  we  may  walk  wisely  toward  them  that  arc 
without,  and  kindly  toward  them  that  are  within; 
and  not  be  justly  offensive  unto  any  ;  but,  what 
in  us  lies,  useful  and  beneficial  to  all.  And 
thus  let  us  pass  the  time  of  our  sojourning  here,  in 
thy  fear  and  favour,  and  to  thy  honour  and  glory; 
that  at  our  last  review  thereof,  thy  name  may 
have  the  praise,  and  our  souls  the  comfort,  in 
the  hour  of  death,  and  in  the  great  day  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

And  now  that  thou  hast  renewed  our  lives  and 
thy  mercies  to  us  this  morning,  help  us,  good 
God,  to  renew  our  desires,  and  resolutions,  and 
endeavours,  to  live  in  the  obedience  of  thy  holy 
will,  and  to  the  honour  of  thy  blessed  name.  O 
restrain  us  from  the  evils  and  follies  into  which 
we  are  prone  to  fall ;  and  quicken  us  to  the 
offices  and  duties  which  we  are  averse  to  per- 
form. And  grant  that  we  may  think  and  speak, 
and  will  and  do,  the  things  becoming  the  ckildren 
of  our  heavenly  Father;  and  so  find  the  strong 
consolation  of  thy  gracious  acceptance  in  Jesus 
Christ  our  Saviour;  who,  when  we  pray,  ha& 
4aught  us  to  say,  Our  Father,  &c. 


Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family.  29 

Jl  fourth  Morning  Prayer. 

OLORD  God,  that  hearest  prayer,  and  art 
nigh  to  all  that  call  upon  thee  in  truth, 
having  thine  ears  open  to  a  world  of  creatures, 
that  continually  depend  upon  thee !  As  we  are 
moved  by  our  own  necessities,  so  are  we  en- 
couraged by  the  daily  experience  of  thy  mercies 
still  to  shelter  ourselves  under  the  shadow  of  thy 
wings,  and  to  continue  our  suits  and  supplications 
at  the  throne  of  thy  grace.  And  we  beg  of  thee, 
who  fashioneth  all  the  hearts  of  the  sons  of  men, 
that  thou  wilt  prepare  our  hearts  to  come  into 
thy  holy  presence  and  to  call  upon  thy  blessed 
name,  in  due  and  acceptable  manner.  O!  pour 
upon  us  the  spirit  of  grace  and  of  supplications; 
and  let  thy  good  Spirit  help  our  infirmities,  and 
teach  us  to  pray,  and  to  ask  such  things,  and  in 
such  a  way,  as  shall  be  most  agreeable  to  thy 
will,  and  most  advantageous  to  our  souls. 

For  we,  who  are  but  poor  worms,  and  sinful 
dust  and  ashes ;  that  have  too  much  cause  to  be 
afraid,  lest  our  great  and  manifold  sins  have 
provoked  thee  to  hide  thy  face  from  us,  and  to 
shut  up  thy  loving  kindness  in  displeasure 
against  us,  have  taken  upon  us  to  speak  unto 
thee,  the  Sovereign  Majesty  of  heaven  and  earth. 
For  we  have  done  foolishly  and  wickedly,  in 
not  hearkening  to  the  calls  of  thy  word,  nor 
yielding  to  the  monitions  of  thy  Spirit,  to  walk 
in  the  ways  which  thou  hast  set  before  us.  Our 
iniquities  are  increased  over  our  heads,  our  tres- 
passes are  grown  even  up  to  heaven,  and  our  sins 
are  a  sore  burden,  too  grievous  and  heavy  for 
us  to  bear  They  are  infinite  debts,  and  sad 

C2 


30  Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

accounts ;  for  which  if  thou,  O  Lord,  shouldst 
enter  into  judgment  with  us,  we  could  not  an- 
swer thee  one  of  a  thousand;  but  must  lay  our 
hands  upon  our  mouths,  and  plead  nothing  but 
guilty,  having  our  whole  dependence  upon  thy 
^mercy. 

O  God,  be  merciful  to  us,  miserable  sinners, 
for  his  sake,  whom  thou  hast  exalted  to  be  a 
Prince  and  a  Saviour,  to  give  repentance  to  thy 
people,  and  forgiveness  of  their  sins  :  be  merci- 
ful to  us,  we  pray  thee,  and  heal  our  souls,  that 
have  greatly  sinned  against  thee.  O  heal  our 
backslidings,  renew  us  to  true  repentance,  es- 
tablish our  hearts  in  thy  true  fear  and  love,  and 
establish  our  goings  in  thy  holy  ways;  that  wre 
may  not  be  so  wavering  and  bent  to  backsliding, 
nor  revolt  from  thee  to  turn  to  folly,  after  thou 
in  rnercy  hast  spoken  peace  to  our  souls;  but 
may  go  on  conquering  and  to  conquer  all  the 
enemies  of  our  souls,  and  all  the  hinderances  of 
our  salvation,  till  satan  be  bruised  under  our  feet. 

O  thou  God  of  all  grace!  bring  such  thoughts 
to  our  minds,  and  lay  such  considerations  home 
powerfully  upon  our  hearts,  as  thou  knowrest 
most  effectual  to  prevail  with  us,  to  work  us  in 
thy  will,  and  to  keep  us  from  our  iniquity  with- 
in the  bounds  of  our  duty,  till  thou  receive  us  into 
the  blessed  kingdom  of  thy  glory.  And,  in  the 
mean*  time,  sanctify  to  us  all  thy  dealings  with 
us;  and  bless  us  in  all  our  undertakings,  and  in 
all  our  conditions,  fruitions  and  relations.  Make 
us  humble  in  an  hiojh  estate,  contented  in  a  lowt 
and  still  duly  careful  of  our  souls  in  all;  follow- 
ing after  the  things  now  which  will  bring  us  true 
•peace  and  comfort  at  the  last. 


Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family.  31 

Dispose  of  us,  we  beseech  thee,  our  God,  and 
of  all  that  concerns  us  this  day,  to  the  glory  of 
thy  name.  O  keep  us  at  all  times,  and  in  all 
places  and  companies,  from  the  evil  of  sin,  and 
from  all  other  evils,  to  which  the  greatness  of 
our  sins  does  make  us  liable.  And  take  thouvO 
heavenly  Father,  the  gracious  charge,  and 
guidance,  and  government  of  us ;  and  so  lead  us 
here  in  all  our  ways,  with  thy  counsel,  that 
hereafter  thou  mayest  receive  us  into  thy  glory; 
through  thy  tender  mercies,  and  our  Saviour's 
abundant  merits:  in  whose  own  words,  we  beg 
all  things  needful  for  ourselves  and  others,  at 
thy  hands. 

Our  Father,   &c. 

Jl  fifth  Morning  Prayer 

OLOUD  our  God!  thy  name  is  most  excel- 
lent in  all  the  earth:  thou  hast  set  up  thy 
glory  above  the  heavens,  and  thou  art  worthy 
to  be  celebrated  with  everlasting  praises  of  men 
and  angels  ;  for  thou  hast  created  all  things,  and 
for  thy  pleasure  it  is  that  they  are  and  were 
created.  Thy  hands,  O  Lord,  have  made  us  and 
fashioned  us,  and  thou  hast  breathed  into  our 
nostrils  the  breath  of  life;  yea,  still  thou  boldest 
our  souls  in  life,  and  givest  us  every  good  thing 
that  makes  our  lives  a  blessing  and  a  comfort  to 
us.  Thou  hast  formed  us  for  thyself,  that  we 
should  show  forth  thy  praise,  and  live  to  thy 
glory,  as  we  do  continually  live  upon  thy  bounty. 
But,  O  Lord  our  God!  we  have  not  brought 
thee  the  glory  which  thou  hast  made  us  capable 
of,  and  so  many  ways  obliged  us  to ;  instead  of 


32  Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

that,  O  how  greatly  have  we  dishonoured  thee, 
our  God,  in  the  whole  course  and  conduct  of  our 
lives!  time  after  time,  forgetting  the  gracious 
Giver  of  all  our  good  things,  who  art  never  un- 
mindful of  us.  And  O  how  soon  have  we  been 
weary  to  do  thee  service,  who  art  never  weary 
to  do  us  good  !  Yea,  we  have  not  only  neglect- 
ed thy  work,  but  have  been  disobedient  against 
thy  word,  and  have  taken  bold  liberties,  to  goon 
after  our  own  foolish  and  hurtful  lusts,  in  such 
ways  of  living  as  thy  laws  and  our  own  hearts 
disallow  and  condemn  us  for. 

Arid  for  these  things  we  desire  to  pour  out  our 
hearts,  and  to  humble  our  sinful  selves  here  be- 
fore thee;  entreating  thy  gracious  favour, for  the 
sake  of  that  mercy  of  thine  in  Christ  Jesus,  who 
has  moved  thee  to  spare  us  so  long,  and  to  do 
so  much  for  us  already,  that  thou  wilt  be  pleased 
to  give  us  repentance  and  pardon  for  ^11  that  is 
past,  wherein  we  have  offended  thee;  whether  in 
omitting  of  our  duty,  or  failing  in  it,  or  doing 
contrary  to  it.  However  we  have  transgressed, 
O  humble  us  duly  under  the  sense  of  it ;  and,  for 
thy  dear  Son's  sake,  absolve  us  thoroughly  from 
the  guilt  of  it. 

And  strengthen  us,  good  Lord,  with  might,  by 
the  spirit  in  the  inner  man,  to  make  us  more 
watchful  against,  and  more  victorious  over,  the 
corruption  of  our  nature,  the  temptations  of  the 
devil,  arid  the  distractions  and  allurements  of 
this  sinful  world,  wherein  we  live.  O  destroy 
in  us  every  vicious  inclination,  every  evil  habit, 
and  rebellious  notion,  that  exalts  itself  against 
the  knowledge  of  God,  and  against  the  obedi- 
ence of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  And  increase 


Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family.  33 

and  confirm  in  us,  still  more  and  more,  thy  true 
knowledge  and  faith,  and  fear,  and  love;  and 
every  grace  of  thy  holy  Spirit,  which  thou  know- 
est  to  be  most  wanting  in  us,  and  necessary  for 
us;  such  as  may  make  our  lives  still  more  com- 
fortable to  ourselves,  more  profitable  to  others, 
and  more  to  the  glory  of  thy  name.  And  how- 
ever it  goes  with  us,  as  to  the  concerns  of  this 
present  time,  O  that  we  may  still  be  found  in 
the  way  of  our  duty,  fearing  God,  and  working 
righteousness;  that  we  may  secure  our  interest 
in  the  great  Saviour  of  the  world,  so  that  when 
all  here  shall  fail  us,  thou  mayest  take  us  up, 
and  be  the  strength  of  our  hearts,  and  our  por- 
tion for  evermore. 

Day  by  day  we  magnify  thee,  O  Lord,  who 
jmakest  every  day  of  our  lives  still  a  further  ad- 
dition to  thy  mercies.  We  bless  thee  for  our 
last  night's  preservation  and  protection,  and  for 
the  rest  and  refreshment  which  thou  hast  given 
us  therein.  O  cause  us  to  hear  thy  loving  kind- 
ness in  the  morning,  for  in  thee  do  we  trust; 
cause  us  to  know  the  way  wherein  we  shall  go, 
for  we  lift  up  our  souls  to  thee.  Cast  us  not 
away  from  thy  presence;  take  not  thy  holy  Spi- 
rit from  us;  but  direct  all  our  ways  to  please 
thee  our  God,  that  thou  mayest  crown  us  with 
blessing  and  good  success.  Help  us  to  see  thy 
power,  to  own  thy  presence,  to  admire  thy  wis- 
dom, arid  to  love  thy  goodness  in  all  thy  crea- 
tures. And  by  all  the  comforts  of  creatures,  O 
draw  our  hearts  still  nearer  to  thyself,  the  bless- 
ed Creator  of  every  comfort;  and  let  our  medi- 
tations of  God  be  sweet  as  well  as  frequent,  that 
delighting  ourselves  in  the  Lord,  thou  mayest 


34  Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

give  unto  us  the  desires  of  our  hearts.  Such  thy 
mercy  and  grace  we  beg  for  ourselves,  and  all 
ours,  and  thine,  every  where,  in  our  great  Medi- 
ator's form  of  prayer,  Our  Father,  &c. 

A  Sixth  Morning  Prayer 

WE  do  here  present  ourselves  this  morn- 
ing before  thy  heavenly  glorious  Majes- 
ty, most  blessed  Lord  our  God,  with  the  desire 
of  our  souls,  to  pay  unto  thee  that  tribute  of  ho- 
mage and  service,  and  prayer  and  praise,  which 
thou  hast  made  us  capable  of,  and  every  way 
obliged  us  to.  We  desire  to  perform  the  same 
in  such  a  manner,  that  thou  mayest  mercifully 
accept  us  and  our  services,  at  the  hands  of 
Christ  Jesus.  In  his  great  name  we  come  to 
thee,  at  thy  command,  and  worship  here  at  thy 
footstool,  to  beg  thy  pardon  and  peace,  the  in- 
crease of  thy  grace,  and  the  tokens  of  thy  love. 
For  we  are  not  worthy  that  thou  shouldst,  in 
any  way  of  mercy,  take  notice  of  us,  or  be  en- 
treated by  us:  but  worthy  is  the  Lamb  of  God, 
slain  to  take  away  the  sins  of  the  world,  for 
whose  sake  do  thou,  O  Lord,  mercifully  look  up- 
on us ;  for  he  has  fulfilled  those  holy  laws,  which 
we  have  broken,  and  perfectly  satisfied  the  jus- 
tice of  heaven,  for  all  our  breaches  of  them. 
And  in  him  thou  art  a  God  gracious  and  merci- 
ful, to  poor  sinners,  who  deserve  nothing  from 
thee,  but  to  be  forsaken  and  abhorred  by  thee. 
Unto  us  belong  shame  and  confusion  of  face  for 
our  sins,  and  fearful  expectation  of  all  the  judg- 
ments and  miseries  which  thy  holy  laws  de- 
nounce against  sinners :  if  thou,  Lord,  shouldst 


Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family.  35 

be  extreme  to  mark  what  we  have  done  amiss ; 
if  thou  shouldst  deal  with  us  and  proceed 
against  us  as  injustice  thou  mightest. 

But,  O  gracious  Father,  regard  not  what  we 
have  done  against  thee,  but  what  our  blessed 
Saviour  has  done  for  us;  not  what  we  have  made 
ourselves,  but  what  he  is  made  of  thee,  our  God 
unto  us.  And  O  that  Christ  may  be  to  every  one 
of  our  souls,  what  he  is  to  all  thy  faithful  people, 
wisdom,  and  righteousness,  and  sanctification, 
and  redemption ;  that  his  precious  blood  may 
cleanse  us  from  all  our  sins;  and  that  the  grace 
of  thy  holy  Spirit  may  further  renew  and  sanctify 
our  souls,  and  subdue  our  iniquities,  and  mortify 
our  lusts;  and  quicken  us  to,and  enable  usforthe 
performance  of  all  the  duties  of  thy  holy  service. 
O  let  not  sin  reign  in  our  mortal  bodies,  that  we 
should  obey  it  in  the  lust  thereof.  Let  there  be 
no  sin  in  us  but  what  is  felt  and  hated,  bewailed 
and  resisted  by  us;  and  let  us  approve  our  very 
hearts  to  thee,  the  Searcher  of  them;  and  all 
our  ways  still  pleasing  in  thy  sight. 

O  teach  us  to  know  thee,  our  God,  and  enable 
us  to  do  thy  will  as  we  ought  to  do.  Give  us 
hearts  to  fear  thee,  and  love  thee;  to  trust  and 
delight  in  thee,  and  to  adhere  and  cleave  in 
faithfulness  unto  thee.  That  no  temptations  may 
draw  us,  nor  any  tribulations  drive  us  from  thee; 
but  that  all  thy  dispensations  to  us,  and  all  thy 
dealings  with  us,  may  be  the  messengers  of  thy 
love  to  our  souls,  to  bring  us  still  nearer  to  thy 
blessed  self,  and  to  make  us  still  fitter  for  thy 
heavenly  kingdom.  Quicken  us,  O  Lord,  in  our 
dulness;  that  we  may  not  serve  thee  in  a  lifeless 
and  listless  manner;  but  may  abound  in  thy 


36  Mormng  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

work,  and  be  fervent  in  spirit,  serving  the  Lord. 
And  make  us  also  faithful  in  all  the  offices  of 
intercourse  with  our  neighbours;  that  we  may 
be  ready  to  do  good,  and  bear  evil,  and  forbear 
revenge:  and  be  just  and  kind,  merciful  and 
meek,  peaceable  and  patient,  sober  and  tem- 
perate, humble  and  self-denying, inoffensive  and 
useful  in  the  world.  That  so  glorifying  thee 
here  upon  earth,  we  may  at  our  departure  hence, 
enter  into  the  joy  of  our  Lord,  and  be  forever 
glorified  in  thy  heavenly  kingdom. 

O  thou  that  hast  kept  us  alive  to  this  day,  and 
hast  been  still  good  and  kind  to  us  all  our  days, 
renew  thy  mercy  to  us,  we  beseech  thee,  to- 
gether with  this  morning  light  ;  and  as  thou 
makest  the  outgoings  of  the  morning  and  evening 
to  rejoice,  so  lift  up  the  light  of  thy  countenance 
upon  us,  and  make  us  glad  with  the  tokens  of  thy 
love;  and  thou  that  art  ever  present  with  us,  O 
make  us  ever  well  aware  of  thy  presence,  that 
we  duly  remember  thee  in  all  our  ways,  and 
wisely  and  piously  demean  ourselves  in  all  our 
affairs.  Be  with  us,  good  Lord,  at  our  going  out, 
and  our  coming  in;  and  let  thy  grace  follow  us 
this  day,  and  all  the  days  of  our  life.  Be  thou 
our  guide  unto  death,  in  death  our  comfort,  and 
after  death  our  portion  and  happiness  everlasting. 
O  hear  us  from  heaven,  thy  dwellingplace;  and, 
when  thou  hearest,  have  mercy  :  forgive  the  sins 
of  our  persons,  and  the  sins  of  our  prayers;  and 
do  more  for  us  than  we  are  worthy  to  expect  at 
thy  hands,  for  his  sake,  who  alone  is  worthy;  in 
whose  comprehensive  words  we  sum  up  all  our 
desires.  Our  Father,  &c. 


Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family.  37 

vile,  even  in  our  own  eyes,  and  so  highly  guilty 
before  thy  holy  Majesty,  that  it  is  of  the  Lord's 
mercies  we  are  not  consumed,  because  thy  com- 
passions fail  not.  But  behold  us  in  mercy, 
through  the  merits  and  mediation  of  thy  Son 
our  Saviour,  who  did  no  sin,  and  was  manifested 
that  he  might  take  away  our  sins:  by  whom  it  is 
that  we  have  this  access  to  the  Majesty  on  high, 
and  encouragement  to  come  into  thy  presence, 
to  ask  what  we  need,  and  what  thou  aboundest 
with,  and  art  inclinable  to  make  thy  poor  crea- 
tures happy  in  the  enjoyment  of. 

And  seeing  there  is  in  Christ  Jesus  an  infinite 
fulness  of  all  that  ever  we  can  want  or  wish  to 
make  us  holy,  and  to  make  us  most  blessed 
eternally:  O  that  we  may  all  receive  of  his  ful- 
ness grace  sufficient  for  us ;  to  pardon  our  sins 
and  subdue  our  iniquities;  to  justify  our  persons, 
and  to  sanctify  our  souls;  and  to  complete  upon 
our  hearts  and  lives  that  holy  renovating  change, 
which  may  still  more  and  more  transform  us  into 
the  blessed  image  after  which  thou  didst  create 
us;  and  make  us  still  more  meet  to  be  partakers 
of  the  inheritance  of  thy  saints  in  light. 

And  teach  us,  OLord  our  God,  to  use  this  world 
without  abusing  it,  and  to  enjoy  the  things  of  it, 
without  loosing  our  part  in  thy  love,  which  is  better 
than  life.  Whatever  we  have  of  the  world,  O 
may  we  have  the  same  with  thy  leave  and  love, 
sanctified  to  us  by  the  word  of  God,  and  prayer; 
and  by  the  right  employment  arid  improvement 
thereof  to  thy  glory,  who  art  the  gracious  Giver 
of  all  our  good  things.  And  whatsoever  we  want 
of  the  things  of  this  life,  O  Lord  our  heavenly 
Father,  leave  us  not  destitute  of  any  of  those 


38  Morning  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

may  never  find  us  out  to  our  ruin  and  destruc- 
tion. Holy  Father!  carry  on  with  power  thy 
victory  over  our  corruptions,  and  the  work  of 
faith,  and  grace,  and  sanctification  in  our  souls. 
Quicken  us,  O  Lord  our  God,  and  stir  us  up  to 
thy  work;  and  help  and  assist  us  in  the  perform- 
ance of  all  duties  laying  upon  us,  which  of  our- 
selves thou  knowest  how  unable  we  are  to  per- 
form. O  thou  that  workest  in  us  to  will  and  to  <Jo, 
of  thy  good  pleasure,  be  pleased  to  ordain  peace 
for  us,  as  thou  hast  also  wrought  all  thy  works 
in  us. — Establish  the  thing,  O  God,  which  thou 
hast  wrought  for  us;  and  go  on  to  work  mighti- 
ly upon  our  hearts  by  thy  grace,  till  our  souls 
are  fitted  for  the  eternal  enjoyment  of  thy  glory. 
Dear  Lord,  thy  mercies  are  fresh  and  new  to 
us  every  morning.  We  laid  us  down  and  slept, 
and  again  awaked;  for  thou  hast  sustained  us, 
and  kept  us  from  the  terrors  of  the  night,  nnd 
from  all  sad  accidents,  to  rise  in  peace  and  safe- 
ty. Glory  to  thee,  O  God  of  our  salvation,  who 
art  still  so  mindful  of  us,  and  merciful  to  us.  Go 
on,  we  pray  thee,  to  be  good  to  us  this  day.  and 
teach  us  how  to  carry  ourselves,  and  to  order 
all  of  our  affairs.  O  direct  our  undertakings, 
and  prosper  our  endeavours.  Rule  our  hearts 
in  thy  fear  and  love,  and  our  lives  to  thy  honour 
and  praise.  O  keep  us  from  evil,  and  help  us  to 
do  that  which  is  good  and  pleasing  to  our  God, 
through  Jesus  Christ.  Give  us,  Lord,  fill  that 
we  have  asked  as  wre  should;  forgive  us  all  that 
we  have  asked  amiss,  and  give  us  all  else  need- 
ful, that  we  should  have  asked:  which  we  con- 
tinue to  beg  in  the  comprehensive  words  of  thy 
dear  Son.  Our  Father,  &c. 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  39 

Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

OLORD  our  God  !  thou  art  infinitely  great, 
and  infinitely  good.  Thy  glory  is  above 
all  our  thoughts,  and  thy  mercies  are  over  all 
thy  works.  And  above  all  thy  mercies,  have  we 
cause  to  admire,  and  bless,  and  praise  thee,  for 
those  mercies  which,  in  so  large  a  measure,  and 
especial  manner,  thou  hast  been  pleased  still  to 
vouchsafe  unto  us,  who  are  the  daily  objects  of 
thy  bounty,  and  do  continue  still  the  living 
monuments  of  thy  goodness.  Where  thy  glori- 
ous perfections  check  and  forbid  our  approaches, 
thy  gracious  attributes  invite  and  encourage 
our  applications  unto  thee,  and  embolden  us  to 
look  upon  thee,  as  our  most  kind  and  merciful 
Father  in  Jesus  Christ.  And  though  we  have 
j^reat  and  many  sins  to  confess,  yet  will  we  con- 
iess  them,  in  hopes  of  thy  pardon  of  them,  and  of 
power  from  on  high,  to  enable  us  against  them. 
Thou  didst  create  us,  O  Lord,  after  thy  own 
blessed  image,  in  an  holy  and  happy  estate ;  but 
we  have  made  ourselves  vile  and  miserable, 
quite  unlike  the  thing  which  at  first  we  came  out 
of  thy  hands;  averse  to  good,  prone  to  evil,  and 
so  very  full  of  provocation,  that  it  is  thy  won- 
derful patience  with  us,  and  loving  kindness  to 
us,  that  thou  hast  not,  long  before  this  time,  cut 
us  off  in  our  sins,  and  shut  us  up  under  final  des- 
pair of  thy  mercy.  But  thou  hast  so  far  declar- 
ed thy  willingness  to  be  reconciled  even  to  thy 
enemies,  that  thou  hast  sent  thy  only  Son  into  the 
world,  upon  the  great  errand  of  our  salvation; 
that  whosoever  believe  in  him,  should  not  pe- 
rish in  their  sins,  but  have  everlasting  life,  for 


40  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

his  sake.  O  Lord,  we  believe,  help  our  unbelief; 
and  give  us  the  true  repentance  towards  God, 
and  the  right  faith  in  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ; 
that  we  may  be  of  the  number  of  those  who  do 
indeed  repent  and  believe,  to  the  saving  of  the 
soul. 

And  save  us,  O  good  Lord,  from  our  sinful 
selves,  and  from  the  love  and  course  of  this  pre- 
sent evil  world,  and  from  every  self-destroying 
way  which  we  are  tempted  to  follow.  Make  us 
a  way  to  escape  out  all  the  snares  of  temptation, 
wherewith  we  have  been  entangled  and  held, 
and  sore  let  and  hindered  in  running  the  race  set 
before  us.  And  make  thy  ways  plain  before  us, 
and  so  full  of  invitations  to  us,  that  we  may  be 
thoroughly  convinced  of  their  goodness  and  ex- 
cellence, and  resolvedly  give  up  ourselves  to 
follow  them;  that  our  own  experience  in  the 
way  of  goodness  may  be  more  to  keep  and  en- 
gage us  to  it,  than  all  the  allurements  and  dis- 
couragements in  the  world  to  put  us  beside  it. 
Establish,  O  Lord,  and  strengthen  and  settle  us ; 
that  going  forth  in  thy  strength,  we  may  do  thy 
will  to  all  well-pleasing;  and  continue  in  thy 
fear  and  love  to  our  lives'  end. 

Which  things  we  beg  not  for  ourselves  alone, 
but  also  in  behalf  of  all  whom  we  ought  to  en- 
treat thy  mercy  for  in  our  prayers.  O  bring 
nigh  unto  thee  all  those  that  are  yet  afar  off;  and 
make  manifest  the  savour  of  thy  knowledge  in 
every  place ;  that  such  as  yet  sit  in  darkness  and 
in  the  shadow  of  death,  may  come  to  see  the 
light  of  thy  truth,  and  the  joy  of  thy  salvation. 
O  that  every  one  who  names  the  name  of  Christ 
may  depart  from  iniquity,  and  so  live  up  to 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  41 

their  high  and  holy  profession,  that  they  may 
give  no  just  occasion  to  the  enemies  of  the  Lord 
to  blaspheme ;  but  adorn  the  doctrine  of  God  our 
Saviour  in  all  things,  and  to  put  to  silence  the 
ignorance  of  foolish  men  by  well  doing. 

Be  gracious  and  favourable,  O  Lord,  in  an 
especial  manner  to  thy  church.  Arise,  O  God, 
and  plead  thy  own  cause,  and  maintain  thy  true 
and  holy  religion,  which  thou  hast  so  long  and 
so  wonderfully  owned  and  asserted.  O  let  not 
the  enemies  of  thy  church  ever  have  cause  to 
say,  that  they  have  prevailed  against  thy  people; 
but  let  all  that  do  espouse  thy  cause,  and  stand 
up  for  the  honour  and  defence  of  thy  truth,  be 
still  prevalent  and  prosperous  in  all  their  pious 
designs ;  and  still  have  cause  to  say,  the  Lord 
be  magnified,  who  has  pleasure  in  the  prosperity 
of  his  servants. 

Bless,  with  the  choicest  of  thy  blessings,  the 
President  of  these  United  States;*  O  Lord,  pro- 
tect his  person,  direct  his  counsels,  make  his  ad- 
ministration easy  and  happy,  both  to  himself  and 
us;  and  prosper  all  his  undertakings  and  en- 
deavours for  the  public  safety,  peace  and  wel- 
fare of  these  states.  Give  all  magistrates  wisdom 
Und  courage  to  defend  the  truth,  and  to  do  right 
to  all.  Make  ministers  an  example  to  the  flock> 
in  all  sobriety,  righteousness  and  holiness  of 
living;  and  establish  us  all  an  holy  people  to 
thyself;  granting  us  one  heart,  and  one  way,  that 
we  may  all  agree  in  the  same  faith,  and  adorn 
it  with  a  suitable  life. 

Comfort  all  that  want  the  comforts  which  we 

*  In  the  English  copy,  were  these  words ;  u  the  Ring  whom  thou  hast 
put  in  authority  over  us." 

D2 


42  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

enjoy;  and  apply  thyself  in  a  way  of  agreeable 
mercy,  to  the  several  necessities  and  calamities 
of  all  thy  afflicted  ones,  wheresoever  or  howso- 
ever they  are  tried.  Remember,  with  the  favour 
which  thou  bearest  to  thy  people,  all  our  friends 
and  benefactors,  our  kindred  after  the  flesh,  and 
whosoever  are  dear  to  us,  on  any  other  account. 
Make  them,  O  Lord,  such  as  thou  wouldst  have 
them,  and  such  as,  in  Christ  Jesus,  thou  wilt 
mercifully  accept  of  them,  here  to  thy  gracious 
favour,  and  hereafter  to  thy  glorious  kingdom. 
Forgive  our  enemies,  and  turn  their  hearts;  and 
turn  ours  to  forgive  them.  And  direct  all  our 
ways  to  please  thee,  that  thou  mayest  make  even 
our  enemies  to  be  at  peace  with  us. 

Hear  us,  OGod  of  the  spirits  of  all  flesh!  hear 
us  for  ourselves  and  others;  others  for  them- 
selves and  us :  and  hear  the  Son  of  thy  love,  the 
Lover  of  our  souls,  for  us  and  all  the  members 
of  thy  church  militant  here  on  earth,  whereof 
Christ  Jesus  in  heaven  is  the  glorious  head.  For 
him  and  to  him  with  thine  eternal  self,  most  holy 
Father,  and  the  blessed  Spirit  of  grace,  our 
Guide  and  comforter,  be  all  thanks,  and  praise, 
and  honour,  and  glory,  humbly  and  heartily  ren- 
dered and  ascribed  of  us,  and  all  thy  people, 
now  and  for  evermore.  Jlmen. 


Another  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

OUR  ever  blessed  and  most  gracious  God! 
thou  art  the  Lord  and  Giver  of  our  lives 
and  hopes,  and  of  all  our  enjoyments  and  com- 
forts.    To  thee   we  do  owe  ourselves,  arid  all 
that  ever  we  are  capable  of  rendering  and  as 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  43 

cribing.  For  by  thee,  O  Lord,  we  were  created 
and  have  our  being;  and  through  thy  good  pro- 
vidence it  is,  that  we  still  have  been  spared  and 
preserved,  and  cared  and  provided  for,  through- 
out our  whole  lives,  unto  tJiis  present  time. 
From  thee,  our  God,  comes  all  our  help,  and  in 
thee  is  reposed  all  our  hope.  Thou  art  the 
bountiful  Giver  of  all  the  good  that  our  souls  de- 
sire, and  the  merciful  Withholder  of  all  the  evils 
that  our  sins  deserve.  We  acknowledge  thy 
great  and  daily  goodness  to  us,  and  our  own  ex- 
ceeding unworthiness  of  the  least  of  all  thy  mer- 
cies. We  take  shame  and  confusion  to  our- 
selves, that  we  have  so  little  improved,  and  so 
greatly  abused,  all  thy  patience  with  us,  and  all 
the  various  instances  of  thy  bounty  to  us.  For 
even  thy  mercies  help  to  inflame  the  heavy 
reckoning  of  our  offences,  because  we  have 
done  so  much  against  thee,  after  all  the  great 
things  thou  hast  done  for  us.  We  desire,  O 
Lord,  to  be  penitent,  and  humbled  for  our  sins; 
and  to  entreat  thy  gracious  favour  in  Jesus  Christ, 
for  the  pardon  of  them.  Forgive  us,  we  pray 
thee,  for  his  sake,  all  the  sins  that  ever  we  have 
committed  against  thee,  and  absolve  us  from  all 
the  evils  whereof  we  now  stand  guilty  before  thee. 
And  being  justified  by  faith,  grant  us  peace  writh 
God,  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

And  we  pray  that  thou  wilt  be  to  us  a  Father 
of  mercies,  and  a  God  of  consolation;  so  that 
thou  wilt  make  us  followers  of  God,  as  dear 
children ;  ever  jealous  over  our  hearts,  and  watch- 
ful over  our  ways;  continually  fearing  to  offend, 
and  endeavouring  to  please  thee;  and  keeping 
ou-r  hearts  with  all  diligence,  that  they  may  not 


44  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

be  hardened  through  the  deceitfulness  of  sin. 
Thou  knowest,  O  Lord,  our  weakness,  and  dan- 
ger of  temptation;  our  danger  from  the  cruel, 
subtle  enemy  of  our  souls  ;  and  from  this  present 
world  that  is  so  full  of  snares ;  and  from  our  own 
vile  flesh  and  deceitful  hearts,  so  apt  to  betray 
us  into  the  enemy's  hands;  we  pray,  therefore, 
good  Lord,  that  thou  wilt  arm  us  with  the  whole 
armour  of  God,  and  uphold  us  with  thy  free 
Spirit,  and  watch  over  us  for  good  evermore. 
Especially  in  the  times  of  our  sorest  trials,  let  us 
experience  the  strongest  aids  of  thy  heavenly 
grace,  that  we  may  never  fall  a  miserable  prey 
to  those  deadly  enemies  that  seek  to  devour  us. 

And  teach  us,  our  God,  to  know  the  day  of 
grace,  and  the  time  of  our  visitation,  and  to  see 
the  things  of  our  peace,  and  duly  to  mind  and 
settle  the  great  eternal  affairs  of  our  souls,  in 
this  our  day,  before  they  be  hid  from  our  eyes* 
And  while  we  have  time,  O  enable  us  to  use  and 
improve  it,  to  those  great  ends  for  which  thou  art 
pleased  to  put  that  precious  talent  into  our  hands, 
that  wre  may  make  the  short  and  uncertain  stay 
which  we  have  here,  an  opportunity  of  securing 
to  ourselves  a  sure  and  everlasting  well-being, 
when  we  shall  depart  from  hence. 

And  seeing  thou  art  pleased  yet  k)  hold  our 
souls  in  life,  and  to  make  us  find  and  feel,  by 
every  day's  experience,  how  abundantly  gracious 
and  merciful  thou  art,  with  much  patience  and 
long-suffering,  enduring  us,  and  with  loving  kind- 
ness and  manifold  blessings,  still  preventing  and 
following  us.  O  give  us  hearts  more  sensible  of 
thy  love,  more  affected  with  thy  mercy,  and 
more  thankful  for  those  continued  favours  which 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  45 

thou  art  pleased  to  multiply  upon  us.  And  help 
us  to  show  forth  thy  praise  arid  the  truth  of  our 
thanks,  not  only  in  speaking  good  of  the  name  of 
God,  but  so  ordering  our  conversations  as  be- 
comes the  gospel  of  our -Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

And  to  thy  mercy  in  him,  most  merciful  Father, 
we  do  now  humbly  recommend  ourselves,  and  all 
that  we  are,  and  have,  this  present  night;  beseech- 
ing thee  to  preserve  and  defend,  and  bless  and 
keep  us,  both  i-n  soul  and  body,  frorri  all  evils 
and  dangers,  to  which  the  weakness  of  our  frame, 
and  the  greatness  of  our  sins,  do  expose  us. 
And  grant  us  such  comfortable  repose,  whereby 
our  frail  nature  may  be  refreshed,  and  our  de- 
cayed strength  recovered,  that  we  may  rise  again 
better  fitted  and  enabled  to  serve  thee  accord- 
ing to  thy  will  in  all  the  duties  of  the  following 
day,  if  thou  shalt  be  pleased  to  make  addition  of 
another  day  to  our  lives.  And  as  thou  addest 
days  and  mercies,  be  pleased  also  to  add  repent- 
ance and  amendments  to  our  lives ;  that,  as  we 
come  nearer  to  our  end,  we  may  be  made  still 
fitter  to  the  enjoyment  of  thy  heavenly  kingdom; 
that  every  day  may  bring  us  still  so  much  nearer 
to  those  everlasting  joys  and  glories  which  thou 
hast  prepared  for  them  that  love  thee.  And  for 
all  the  good  things  that  ever  we  have  had,  and 
do  at  present  enjoy,  and  yet  hope  for  from  thy 
bountiful  hands,  thine,  O  blessed  glorious  Lord 
our  God,  be  the  praise,  and  honour,  and  glory, 
offered  up  with  all  grateful  hearts,  by  us,  and  the 
whole  church,  now  and  for  evermore.  Amen. 


46  Evening  prayer  for  a  Family. 

Jl  third  Evening  Prayer. 

OLORD,  ihou  art  our  gracious  God,  our 
chiefest  good,  and  our  most  merciful  Father 
in  Jesus  Christ;  in  whose  great  name,  arid  pre- 
vailing mediation,  alone  it  is  that  we,  who  have 
multiplied  our  offences  against  thee,  are  encou- 
raged still  to  present  our  persons,  and  our  prayers 
here  before  thee.  It  is  a  privilege  which  we 
must  acknowledge  ourselves  utterly  unworthy  to 
enjoy,  that  thou  shouldst  admit  us  into  thy  ser- 
vice; yea  into  fellowship  with  thy  blessed  self. 
We  durst  not  appear  in  the  presence  of  such  a 
holy  glorious  Majesty,  in  our  own  names,  or 
trusting  in  any  merits  or  righteousness  in  our- 
selves; being  conscious  to  so  much  of  our  sin 
and  guilt,  as  may  make  us  ashamed  to  come 
before  thy  face,  and  to  tremble  for  fear  of  thy 
judgments.  But  we  come  in  the  name  and 
mediation  of  thy  dear  Son,  whom  thou  dost  in- 
finitely love  above  all ;  who  has  fully  satisfied  thy 
justice  for  our  sins,  and  does  continually  inter- 
cede at  thy  right  hand  for  our  souls;  whom  thou 
delightest  to  honour  in  sparing,  accepting,  arid 
saving  poor  unworthy  sinners  upon  his  account. 
O  deliver  us,  most  gracious  Lord,  for  his  sake, 
from  all  our  transgressions,  for  which  our  hearts 
condemn  us;  and  from  all,  of  which  thou,  that 
art  greater  than  our  hearts,  knowest  us  to  be 
guilty.  And  seal  to  us  a  pardon,  in  his  most 
precious  blood,  which  speaks  better  things  in 
our  behalf,  than  we  are  able  to  do  ourselves,  in 
all  our  prayers. 

And  may  the  time  past  of  our  lives  suffice  to 
have  lived  to  ourselves,  arid  to  have  served  our 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  47 

own  lusts  and  pleasures.  O  put  an  end  to  all 
our  presumptuous  and  treacherous  dealings  \?ith 
thy  heavenly  all-seeing  Majesty;  and  grant  us) 
new  and  clean,  humble  and  contrite  hearts,  to 
tremble  at  thy  word  and  presence,  and  to  hate 
and  abandon  all  our  foolish  and  sinful  misdoings. 
And  wiltthou  engage  to  thyself,  O  blessed  Lord, 
the  best  and  frequentest  thoughts  of  our  minds, 
the  chief  and  choicest  affections  of  our  hearts,  and 
the  main  tendency  and  activity  of  our  souls;  O 
let  us  be  taken  up  with  such  content  and  delight 
in  attendance  upon  thee,  and  communion  with 
thee,  that  the  most  tempting  things  of  this  world 
may  not  pull  us  down  into  an  inordinate  or  im- 
moderate love  of  them;  nor  disturb  and  hinder 
us  in  the  pursuit  of  what  our  faith  foresees,  and 
what  thy  love  has  prepared  for,  and  promised  to 
thy  servants. 

Hear  us,  O  Lord,  for  ourselves,  and  let  our 
supplications  also  ascend  before  thee  in  the  be- 
half of  all  men  living.  Send  thy  word,  and  the 
means  of  grace  to  such  as  are  yet  destitute  of 
them ;  and  make  them  efficacious,  and  the  savour 
of  life  in  those  that  do  enjoy  them.  Convert  the 
unconverted,  and  perfect  thy  good  work  where 
thou  hast  begun  it.  Give  a  check  from  heaven 
to  all  prafaneness,  vice  and  ungodliness,  that 
presumtuous  sinners  may  be  ashamed,  and  the 
wickedness  of  the  wicked  may  come  to  an  end. 
O  make  thy  church  to  increase  and  flourish,  and 
thy  servants  to  prevail  and  rejoice.  Be  gracious 
and  favourable  to  this  land,  and  to  the  head  and 
governors  thereof,  and  to  all  inferior  and  parti- 
cular members  of  it.  O  do  thou  rule  all  our  rul- 
ers, counsel  all  our  counsellors,  teach  all  our 


48  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

teachers,  and  turn  and  order  all  our  public 
affairs,  to  the  glory  of  thy  name,  to  the  welfare 
of  thy  church,  and  to  the  happiness  of  this  nation. 
Avert  from  us,  we  beseech  thee,  the  judgments 
which  we  feel  or  fear,  and  continue  to  us  the 
blessings  and  comforts  for  our  bodies,  and  es- 
pecially the  helps  and  advantages  for  our  souls, 
which  through  thy  favour  we  do  enjoy.  And 
notwithstanding  all  the  devices  of  the  enemies 
of  our  peace,  and  all  the  great  and  crying  pro- 
vocations of  our  sins,  O  be  thou  still  our  God, 
and  let  us  be  thy  people. 

Think  thoughts  of  pity  and  compassion  to  all 
the  sons  and  daughters  of  affliction.  O  sanctify 
thy  fatherly  corrections  to  them,  support ^them 
under  their  several  burdens,  and  in  thy  good 
time  deliver  them  from  all  the  pressures  that  are 
upon  them.  Be  good  to  all  our  friends  and 
neighbours,  reward  our  benefactors,  bless  our 
relations  with  the  best  of  thy  blessings,  mak- 
ing them  near  to  thyself  by  grace,  as  they  are  to 
us  by  alliance.  Preserve  us  from  our  enemies, 
arid  reconcile  them  both  to  us  and  to  thyself. 
O  that  all  the  habitations  of  Christians  may  be 
houses  of  prayer,  and  be  thou  especially  kind  to 
the  several  families  where  thy  blessed  name  is 
called  upon.  Let  thy  heavenly  blessings,  and 
thy  saving  grace  descend  and  rest  upon  us  here 
in  this  family.  O  guide  us,  and  keep  us  ;  make 
us  wise  and  faithful  in  our  duty,,  and  prosperous 
and  blessed  in  the  issue.  Bless  all  our  present 
estates  to  us,  and  fit  u.s  all  for  whatsoever  thou 
shalt  be  pleased  to  call  us  to.  O  teach  us  how 
to  want  and  how  to  abound ;  and  both  in  a  pros- 
perous and  suffering  condition,  secure  our  hearts 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  49 

to  thyself,  and  make  us  ever  to  approve  ourselves 
sincere  and  faithful  in  thy  service. 

And  now,  O  Lord,  be  pleased  to  accept  our 
evening  sacrifice  of  praise  and  thanksgiving,  to 
thee  the  Fattier  of  mercies,  and  fountain  of  all 
goodness,  for  the  mercies  of  the  day  past,  and 
for  thy  great  mercy  and  goodness,  that  has 
hitherto  followed  us  all  the  days  of  our  life. — 
For  our  lives  have  been  filled  with  thy  mercies, 
and  thou  hast  abounded  towards  us  in  loving 
kindness,  and  variety  of  thy  sweet  and  comforta- 
ble blessings,  pertaining  to  this  world,  and  a 
better;  passing  by  our  innumerable  sins,  as  if 
thou  sawest  them  not,  thou  goest  on  still  to 
oblige  us  with  new  favours.  O,  dear  Lord,  im- 
print and  preserve  upon  our  hearts  a  lively  and 
grateful  sense  and  remembrance  of  all  thy  kind- 
ness unto  us,  that  our  souls  may  bless  thee,  and 
all  that  is  within  us  may  praise  thy  holy  name. 

Yea,  let  us  give  thee  thanks  from  the  ground 
of  the  heart,  and  praise  our  God,  whilst  we  have 
our  being.  And  for  all  thy  patience  with  us,  thy 
care  over  us,  and  thy  continual  mercy  to  us, 
blessed  be  thy  name,  O  Lord  God,  our  heavenly 
Father:  and  unto  thee  be  all  thanks,  and  praise, 
and  love,  and  obedience,  and  honour,  and  glory, 
offered  by  us  and  all  thine,  every  where,  rio\V 
and  evermore.  Amen. 

Jl  fourth  Evening  Prayer. 

O  LORD,  the  infinite,  incomprehensible  God, 
who  art  before  all,  art  above  all,  and  wilt 
be  for  ever  the  same,  when  time  shall  be  no 
more!  Thou  hast  heaven  for  thy  throne  and  the 

F 


50  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

earth  for  thy  footstool;  and  all  the  things  in 
both,  continually  in  thy  sight,  and  at  thy  dis- 
posal. Thou  art  the  Searcher  of  our  hearts, 
and  the  Overseer  of  our  whole  lives,  here  arid 
every  where  present;  and  now  and  evermore 
thou  seest  us,  and  compasseth  our  path,  and  our 
lying  down,  and  art  thoroughly  acquainted  with 
all  our  ways.  Thou  kn'owest,  O  Lord,  the  dul- 
ness  and  hardness,  the  vanity  and  deceitfulness 
of  our  hearts;  how  much  ado  we  have  to  bring 
and  keep  them  in  an  holy  frame,  fit  to  attend 
upon  thy  heavenly  Majesty.  For  that  we  were 
born  sinners,  and  so  have  lived  and  continued; 
and  by  custom  of  sinning,  and  still  adding  sin 
unto  sin,  we  have  made  ourselves  more  the  chil- 
dren of  wrath  than  we  are  by  nature;  trans- 
gressing thy  holy,  good  and  righteous  laws, 
abusing  thy  great  and  manifold  mercies,  tempt- 
ing thy  patience,  despising  thy  goodness,  offend- 
ing thee  more,  even  for  thy  long  forbearance 
with  us,  and  making  the  very  abundance  of  thy 

§race  our  encouragement  to  continue  in  our  sins, 
o  that  the  least  of  all  those  mercies  which  we 
do  enjoy,  is  far  above  any  thing  that  we  have 
reason  to  expect,  at  the  hands  of  that  God  whom 
we  have  so  greatly  provoked.  And  justly  might- 
est  thou,  O  Lord,  withdraw  thy  tender  mercies 
from  us,  and  pour  out  thy  wrath  and  indignation 
to  the  uttermost  upon  us ;  making  us  to  find  and 
feel  by  woful  experience,  what  an  evil  and  bitter 
thing  it  is  to  trespass  upon  thee,  as  we  have  done. 
Thou  mightest  make  us  experience  the  same,  in 
the  place  of  torment,  and  outward  darkness, 
where  is  weeping  and  wailing  and  gnashing  of 
teeth,  and  from  whence  there  is  no  redemption. 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  51 

But  thou  art  a  God  of  wonderful  patience  to 
bear  with  sinners;  and  a  God  of  infinite  goodness 
and  mercy,  to  forgive  the  sins  of  all  them  that 
are  penitent.  Thou  hast  said,  that  if  the  wicked 
forsake  his  way,  and  the  unrighteous  man  his 
thoughts,  and  return  to  the  Lord,  thou  wilt  have 
mercy  upon  him,  and  abundantly  pardon.  But, 
O  Lord,  thou  knovvest  that  without  thee  we  can- 
not so  much  as  come  unto  thee,  unless  thou  meet 
us  with  thy  heavenly  grace  and  help  us  with 
thy  almighty  assistance.  We  humbly  beg,  there- 
fore, that  thou  wilt  be  graciously  pleased  to 
stretch  forth  thy  powerful  and  merciful  hand,  to 
loose  the  captive  chain  wherein  our  sins  have 
entangled  our  souls.  And  let  it  be  thy  gracious 
pleasure,  O  blessed  Lord,  to  set  us  free  from 
every  weight  of  sin  and  yoke  of  bondage,  that 
lies  heavy  upon  our  souls,  and  unfits  us  to  serve 
thee  with  that  sincerity,  and  readiness,  and  glad- 
ness, which  thou  requirest  of  thy  people.  O 
help  us  so  to  see  and  feel,  so  to  hate  and  bewail, 
and  confess  and  forsake  our  sins,  that  we  may 
have  the  well-grounded  apprehension,  and  the 
comfortable  persuasion  of  thy  forgiveness  of 
them ;  thy  acceptance  of  us,  land  thy  love  to  us 
in  the  blessed  Son  of  thy  eternal  love. 

And  for  his  sake,  wilt  thou  grant  us,  O  Lord, 
the  increase  of  thy  grace,  and  such  aids  of  thy 
holy  Spirit,  as  may  enable  us  to  subdue  our  sins, 
and  fit  us  for  all  the  duties  of  thy  service,  which 
either  we  have  neglected,  or  but  unduly  and 
faultily  performed.  That  we  may  serve  thee, 
our  God,  sincerely  without  hypocrisy ;  cheerfully, 
without  dulness;  universally,  without  partiality; 
and  constantly,  without  falling  away,  or  being 


52  Evening  Prayer  for   a  Family. 

weary  of  well-doing.  Thou  art  not  weary  to  do 
us  good;  O  let  us  never  be  weary  to  do  thee 
service:  but  as  thou  hast  pleasure  in  the  pros- 
perity of  thy  servants,  so  let  us  take  pleasure  in 
the  service  of  our  Lord,  and  abound  in  thy  work, 
and  in  thy  love  and  praise  evermore.  O  fill  up 
all  that  is  wanting,  and  reform  whatever  is  amiss 
in  us.  arid  perfect  that  which  concerns  us;  mak- 
ing us  such  in  our  hearts,  arid  in  our  lives,  to- 
wards thee,  our  God,  that  we  may  obtain  thy 
blessed  peace  here,  and  thy  heavenly  glory 
hereafter.  And  be  thou  pleased  to  grant  us  now, 
out  of  the  riches  of  thy  grace,  the  comfortable 
sense  of  thy  gracious  acceptance  of  us,  and  thy 
merciful  intentions  towards  us.  O  speak  peace 
to  our  consciences,  and  say  to  our  souls,  thou  art 
our  salvation;  that  we  may  look  upon  thee,  our 
God,  as  a  reconciled  Father  tons  in  Jesus  Christ. 
In  his  great  name,  arid  prevailing  mediation, 
we  enlarge  our  petitions,  in  behalf  of  the  whole 
race  of  mankind,  that  are  now  with  us  alive  upon 
earth.  O  that  all  the  ends  of  the  world  may  re- 
memher  themselves,  and  turn  to  the  Lord,  and 
see  the  salvation  of  our  God  !  Do  good,  O  God, 
in  thy  good  pleasure  to  Zion ;  and  build  thou  the 
walls  of  Jerusalem,  that  we  may  seethe  good  of 
it  all  the  days  of  our  life.  Continue  thy  mercies 
to  this  sinful  land,  whereof  we  are  sinful  mem- 
bers. Teach  us  to  know  the  meaning  of  thy  dis- 
pensations to  us;  and  help  us  to  improve  by  all 
thy  dealings  with  us.  .  O  turn  all  our  hearts  to 
thee,  as  the  heart  of  one  man;  and  reform  all  our 
lives,  according  to  the  holy  pattern  and  precepts 
of  our  Lord,  that  thou  mayest  cause  thy  anger 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  53 

towards  us  to  cease;  and  go  on  still  to  take  care 
of  us,  and  never  leave  nor  forsake  us. 

Bless  abundantly,  we  humbly  beseech  thee, 
thy  servant,  the  President  of  the  United  States, 
and  all  others  in  authority ;  and  so  replenish 
them  with  the  grace  of  thy  holy  Spirit,  that  they 
may  always  incline  to  thy  will  and  walk  in  thy 
way:  endue  them  plenteously  with  heavenly 
gifts ;  and  grant  them  in  health  and  prosperity 
long  to  live.*  And  grant  unto  all  ministers  of 
thy  gospel  continual  supplies  of  all  needful  gifts 
and  graces  of  thy  holy  Spirit,  for  the  faithful  and 
comfortable  discharge  of  their  several  duties. 
O  bring  all  our  neighbours  near  to  thyself;  and 
be  thou  a  friend  to  all  our  friends,  a  father  to 
the  fatherless,  a  husband  to  the  widow,  a  refuge 
to  the  oppressed,  a  physician  to  the  sick,  a  helper 
to  the  friendless,  a  God  of  consolation  to  the 
distressed  and  sorrowful,  whatever  be  their  trou- 
ble and  affliction.  O  bless  to  us,  whatever  thou 
art  pleased  to  allot  us,  and  every  thing  that  be- 
falls us.  Make  all  work  for  our  good  ;  to  build 
us  up  in  thy  grace,  and  to  help  us  on  to  thy  glory. 

And  as  thou  hast  been  good  and  kind  to  us  the 
day  past,  and  throughout  our  whole  lives;  for 
which  we  desire,  O  Lord,  humbly  and  thankfully 
to  admire  thy  love,  and  to  bless  thy  name;  so  we 
beg  that  we  may  experience  the  continuance  of 

*  In  the  English  copy  the  reading  of  the  preceding  part  of  this  para- 
graph is  in  the  following  words ;  "  Bless  abundantly  the  King's  Majes- 
ty, who  now  sways  the  sceptre  of  these  realms.  O  Lord  preserve  his 
life,  prolong  his  days,  an.l  prosper  his  government.  Give  him  the  hearts 
of  his  subjects',  and  the  necks  of  his  enemies.  Make  him  the  rejoicing  of 
thy  peo-ile,  and  a  terror  only  to  evil-doers.  O  continue  him  long  a  zeal- 
ous defender  of  the  faith,  a  promoter  of  thy  fear,  and  asserter  of  oar 
rights1,  that  under  his  shadow  we  may  be  in  peace  and  safety,  enjoying 
the  liberty  of  the  »o«pel,  and  the  free  profession  and  establishment  of  thy 
true  and  holy  religion/' 

E  2 


54  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

thy  gracious  goodness,  to  us,  and  thy  fatherly 
care  over  us,  this  present  night.  O  preserve 
and  defend,  and  bless  and  keep  us,  that  no  evil 
may  befall  us,  nor  any  plague  come  nigh  our 
dwelling.  Give  us  sleep  arid  rest  to  refresh  and 
strengthen  us  for  thy  service,  and  our  duty;  and 
prepare  us,  O  Lord,  for  our  last  sleep,  in  death, 
and  for  our  departure  out  of  this  mortal  life,  and 
those  great  accounts  that  we  must  make  before 
the  judgment-seat  of  Jesus  Christ.  O  instruct 
«s9  and  assist  us,  in  that  great  work  of  prepara- 
tion for  our  everlasting  condition;  that  we  may, 
in  this  only  time  of  preparation,  finish  the  great 
work  which  thou  hast  given  us  to  do,  before  the 
night  of  death  overtake  us,  wherein  we  cannot 
work.  That,  whenever  thou  shalt  be  pleased  to 
give  us  the  summons  of  death,  we  may  find  no- 
thing to  do  but  to  die,  and  cheerfully  resign  our 
spirits  into  thy  gracious  hands,  who  gavest  them 
to  us,  through  the  riches  of  thy  grace,  and  the 
worthiness  of  thy  Son  ;  in  whose  merits  alone  we 
trust,  and  for  all  that  he  has  so  wonderfully  ef- 
fected, to  recover  and  help  us,  and  to  obtain 
eternal  redemption  for  us,  to  thy  name,  O  blessed 
God  of  our  salvation,  be  the  praise,  and  honour, 
and  glory,  given  by  us  and  all  thy  people,  from 
this  time  forth  for  evermore.  Amen. 

Jl  fifth  Evening  Prayer. 

OLORD,  we  desire  to  seek  thy  face,  and  to 
wait  upon  thee  in  the  duties  of  thy  worship; 
entreating  thy  gracious  favour  with  our  whole 
hearts,  that  we  may  do  all  as  we  ought,  with  good 
acceptance  to  our  God.     And  to  whom  should 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  55 

we  make  our  applications,  but  unto  thee,  the 
Father  of  mercies  and  the  fountain  of  all  goodness, 
who  art  able  to  do  exceeding  abundantly  for  us, 
even  above  all  that  we  can  ask  or  think ;  and  who 
hast  declared  thy  willingness  to  be  importuned 
and  solicited  by  us;  and  thy  readiness  to  hear,  and 
help,  and  answer  us,  in  those  things  which  we 
beg  at  thy  gracious  and  bountiful  hands,  in  the 
name  and  mediation  of  our  great  Lord  arid  Sa- 
viour :  O  let  our  prayer  be  set  before  thee  as  in- 
cense, and  the  lifting  up  of  our  hands  be  as  the 
evening  sacrifice,  pleasing  to  thee  our  God,  in 
the  Son  of  thy  love.  It  is  in  his  blessed  name 
alone,  that  we  have  the  encouragement  and 
boldness  to  beg  of  thy  infinite  goodness  all  that 
thou  knowest  to  be  needful  and  expedient  for 
us;  seeing  there  is  in  ourselves  no  good  thing  to 
recommend  us  to  thy  favour  and  acceptance; 
but  a  proneness  and  inclination  to  what  is  dis- 
pleasing in  thy  eyes,  and  destructive  to  our  souls. 
For  besides  that  we  were  by  nature  the  children 
of  wrath,  a  seed  of  evil-doers,  the  sinful  offspring 
of  rebellious  parents;  we  have  been  daily  tres- 
passing upon  thee,  and  still  adding  to  the  heavy 
score  of  our  offences  against  thee.  There  is  no- 
thing in  us,  O  Lord,  but  what  may.  provoke  thee 
to  reject  us:  but  there  is  enough  in  thy  beloved 
Son,  of  all  grace  and  goodness,  to  move  thee 
mercifully  to  accept  us.  He  was  made  sin  for 
us,  who  knew  no  sin,  that  we  might  be  made  the 
righteousness  of  God  in  him;  and  that  we  might 
be  saved  through  faith  in  his  merits,  where  we 
could  not  be  saved  by  any  desert  of  our  own 
works.  O  see  our  sins  punished  in  our  Saviour, 
who  was  wounded  for  our  transgressions,  and 


56  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

bruised  for  our  iniquities :  and  as  the  chastise- 
ment of  our  peace  was  upon  him,  so  let  the 
merits  of  his  righteousness  be  upon  us;  and  by 
his  stripes  let  our  souls  be  healed. 

Nor  do  we  only  beg  for  pardon  of  our  sins, 
but  also  for  power  against  them,  and  grace  suf- 
ficient for  us  to  break  them  off,  arid  to  walk 
more  pleasingly  before  thee,  in  all  the  ways  and 
duties  of  righteousness  and  holiness,  which  thy 
word  prescribes  to  us.  O  never  suffer  us  to  be 
tempted  above  what  we  are  able;  but  make  our 
temptations  less,  or  thy  grace  in  us,  and  our  spi- 
ritual strength,  still  greater  than  all  our  tempta- 
tions ;  that  no  iniquities  may  prevail  against  us, 
nor  any  presumptuous  sin  have  dominion  over  us. 
O  make  us  more  conformable  to  the  pattern  and 
the  precepts  of  our  Saviour,  and  more  transform- 
ed into  his  holy  image  and  likeness;  that  we  may 
not  profess  the  religion  of  Jesus  Christ  to  the 
wrong  and  disparagement  of  it ;  nor  make  the 
way  of  truth,  by  reason  of  us,  to  be  evil  spoken 
of;  but  let  our  light  shine  before  men,  to  the 
glory  of  thee  our  heavenly  Father,  and  to  the 
edification  of  those  with  whom  we  have  our  con- 
versation. 

And  seeing  the  time  of  our  abode  in  this 
transitory  world  is  so  very  short  and  uncertain, 
and  we  have  an  everlasting  estate  to  abide  in 
after  our  departure  hence,  where  we  must  be 
happy  or  miserable  eternally,  according  to  what 
we  do  now  in  the  body :  O  let  us  not  here  set 
up  our  rest,  as  if  we  were  at  home  upon  earth, 
nor  flatter  ourselves  with  the  thoughts  of  long 
life,  or  sure  enjoyment  of  any  of  those  things 
that  perish  in  the  using;  but  all  the  days  of  our 


Evening  Pntysr  for  a  Family.  57 

appointed  time,  may  we  wait  till  our  change 
comes;  and  not  only  lire  in  expectation  of  it, 
but  in  the  daily  serious  preparation  for  it ;  in  the 
exercise  of  all  those  graces  and  good  works 
that  may  make  it  unto  us  Christ  to  live,  and  gain 
to  die!  that  in  life  and  death  we  may  be  always 
thine ;  still  safe  in  thy  hands,  and  acceptable  in 
thy  sh'ht. 

And  together  with  our  own,  we  commend  to 
thy  mercy,  G  God  of  the?  spirits  of  all  flesh,  the 
necessities  and  distress's  of  :?11  our  brethren 
throughout  the  world.  O  enlighten  thi?  r-norarit, 
quicken  liit?  careless,  awake  the  secure,  con- 
vince the  erroneous,  reclaim  the  vicious,  esta- 
blish the  unsettled,  and  comfort  the  dejected. 
Bring  all  to  the  knowledge  and  love  of  thy  truth, 
and  to  the  participation  of  thy  grace,  and  the 
obedience  of  Christ;  and  so  to  the  blessed  hope 
of  thy  heavenly  glory,  and  to  the  eternal  salva- 
tion of  our  souls.  We  pray,  as  more  particular- 
ly bound,  for  all  our  magistrates  arid  ministers  of 
the  gospel;  and  all  our  friends  and  relations; 
arid  all  thy  servants,  and  all  the  afflicted  every 
where;  especially  those  for  whose  happiness 
and  salvation  thou  knowest  us  to  be  chiefly  con- 
cerned. O  do  thou  for  us,  and  for  them,  as  thou 
kno\ve»t  best,  and  most  needful  and  expedient, 
for  thy  own  mercy's  sake  in  Jesus  Christ. 

As  we  pray  to  thee  for  what  we  want,  so  we 
desire  to  praise  thee  for  all  that  we  have  receiv- 
ed at  thy  hands.  And  blessed  be  thy  name,  O 
Lord,  that  we  have  any  thing,  yea  that  we  have 
so  many  things,  to  bless  and  praise  thee  for.  O 
what  shall  we  render  to  the  Lord  for  all  his 
benefits !  What  can  we  give  to  thee,  our  God, 


58  Evening  Prayer  far  a  Family. 

but  the  glory  of  thy  own  gifts  and  goodness  unto 
us.  O  dear  Lord!  let  not  our  hearts  be  shut  and 
straitened  towards  thee,  whose  hand  is  every 
day  so  open  unto  us;  but  do  thou  possess  and 
enlarge  these  hearts  of  ours  \vith  more  and 
greater  love  and  thankfulness  to  thee,  that  hast 
so  abounded  in  mercy  and  loving  kindness  to- 
wards us,  that  we  may  give  thee  thanks  with  all 
our  hearts,  and  glorify  thy  name  for  evermore. 

And  now  that  the  night  is  upon  us,  and  we 
are  ready  to  betake  ourselves  to  our  rest,  we 
commit  ourselves  to  thy  gracious  protection, 
who  never  sleepest  nor  slumberest,  but  hast  still 
a  watchful  eye  open  upon  thy  people.  O  watch 
over  us,  our  God,  we  pray  thee,  for  good ;  that 
none  of  the  evils  or  harms  which  our  sins  have 
deserved  may  befall  us.  Preserve  us  from  the 
works,  and  from  the  powers  of  darkness,  and 
from  all  the  terrors  and  dangers  of  the  night. 
Let  all*  our  sins,  to-day,  or  any  time  heretofore 
committed,  be  removed  out  of  thy  sight,  and 
show  us  the  light  of  thy  countenance,  O  Lord, 
to  refresh  us  with  the  sense  of  thy  blessed  love 
and  favour,  in  our  dear  Redeemer;  for  whom,  and 
to  whom,  with  thy  eternal  self,  and  Holy  Spirit, 
be  all  thanks  and  praise,  and  honour,  and  glory, 
ascribed  of  us  and  all  thy  church,  from  this  time 
forth,  world  without  end.  Amen. 


JL  sixth  Evening  Prayer. 

OLORD,  our  God,  most  high  and  mighty, 
most  wise  and  holy,  thou  art,  and  good! 
Thou  art,  and  for  ever  wast,  and  for  ever  shall 
continue,   unspeakably    blessed   arid    glorious^ 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  59 

above  all  that  we  are  able  to  express  or  to  con- 
i  ceive.  Thou  dost  not  need  the  services  of  men 
or  angels  to  make  the  least  addition  to  thy  glory 
and  bliss.  Men  cannot  be  profitable  unto  God; 
our  goodness  will  not  extend  to  the  Lord.  But 
in  kindness  and  love  to  our  souls  it  is,  that  thou 
art  pleased  to  lay  thy  commands  upon  us,  to  wait 
upon  thee  in  these  duties  of  thy  immediate  ser- 
vice; which  is  the  blissful  employment  of  all  the 
glorious  host  of  heaven.  Thou  humblest  thyself 
even  to  behold  the  things  that  are  in  heaven,  to 
take  notice  of  the  worship  of  those  blessed  crea- 
tures above.  O  how  wonderful  is  thy  conde- 
scension then,  to  look  down  upon  us,  poor  sinful 
worms,  that  dwell  here  in  houses  of  clay,  whose 
foundation  is  in  the  dust!  Lord,  what  is  man 
that  thou  takest  knowledge  of  him,  and  the  son 
of  man  that  thou  makest  account  of  him !  Thou 
canst  not  at  all  need  us,  nor  any  thing  of  ours,  O 
blessed  God;  but  we  all  do  stand  in  great  and  con- 
tinual need  of  thee,  our  only  sovereign  good;  in 
need  of  thy  mercy  and  forgiveness,  thy  grace  and 
guidance,  thy  blessing  and  assistance;  without 
I  which  we  could  never  hope  to  escape  the  curses 
I  and  miseries  which  are  the  due  wages  of  our  sins ; 
nor  ever  to  attain  unto  that  glory  and  blessed- 
ness, which  are  the  free  gifts  of  God  in  Jesus 
Christ. 

The  desire  of  our  souls,  therefore,  is  to  thy 
name,  O  Lord,  and  to  the  remembrance  of  thee. 
Our  eyes  are  towards  thee,  and  all  our  expecta- 
tion is  from  thee  :  and  still  we  wait,  and  call,  and 
depend  upon  thee,  till  thou  have  mercy  upon  ust 
according  to  our  several  necessities;  and  accord- 
ing to  the  riches  of  thy  grace,  and  the  multitude 


60  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

of  thy  mercies.  O  remember  not  against  us  our 
former  iniquities  ;  enter  not  into  judgment  with 
us,  according  to  the  desert  of  our  sins ;  but  ac- 
cording to  thy  mercy  remember  thou  us.  For 
thy  goodness'  sake,  O  Lord,  blot  out  our  trans- 
gressions as  a  cloud  ;  and  justify  us  freely  by 
Ihy  grace,  through  the  redemption  that  is  in 
Jesus  Christ.  And  bless  us,  holy  God  of  our 
salvation,  in  turning  us  from  all  our  iniquities, 
and  giving  us  grace,  to  repent  and  amend  our 
lives  according  to  thy  holy  word. 

And  to  this  end,  be  thou  pleased  to  enlighten 
our  darkened  minds  with  the  beams  of  thy  saving 
truth,  that  we  may  not  be  unwise,  but  understand 
what  the  will  of  the  Lord  is — And  reform  our 
depraved  wills,  inclining  them  to  a  cheerful  and 
ready  compliance  with  all  the  motions  of  thy 
good  Spirit.  Regulate  our  unruly  passions  ;  pu- 
rify our  corrupt  affections ;  and  convert  all  the 
faculties  of  our  souls,  to  be  instruments  of  thy 
glory,  as  they  have  been  of  thy  dishonour ;  and 
make  our  bodies  fit  temples  for  thy  holy  Spirit  to 
dwell  in.  Yea,  sanctify  us  wholly,  that  we  may, 
as  we  ought,  sanctify  thy  blessed  name. 

And  quicken  us,  O  Lord,  to  hear  thy  voice 
while  it  is  called  to-day;  that  we  may  make 
haste,  and  not  delay  to  keep  thy  commandments. 
O  keep  us  frequently  and  affectionately  mindful 
of  the  shortness  of  our  time,  the  frailty  of  our 
lives,  and  the  uncertainty  of  our  being  here  in 
this  mutable  world,  that  so  soon  passeth  away, 
and  where  we  have  no  continuing  city;  but  are 
strangers  and  sojourncrs  with  thee,  as  all  our 
fathers  before  us  were.  O  let  the  remembrance 
and  consideration  of  this  have  such  a  prevailing 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  61 

influence  upon  us,  as  to  crucify  the  world  to  us, 
and  make  us  more  concerned  for  our  everlasting 
welfare,  and  more  careful  to  improve  every  pre- 
sent enjoyment  to  our  soul's  eternal  advantage; 
and  to  grow  holier  still  as  we  grow  older;  that 
the  days  which  pass  over  us  may  riot  leave  us, 
without  any  amendment  wrought  upon  us;  but 
that  the  work  of  thy  grace  may  go  on  successfully 
upon  our  hearts,  till  it  has  made  us  ripe  and  rea- 
dy for  the  joys  arid  glories  of  thy  kingdom. 

The  same  things  also  we  beg  in  behalf  of  all 
that  ought  to  share  in  our  prayers.  O  forgive 
the  sins,  and  relieve  the  miseries  of  thy  poor 
creatures  every  where.  Enlarge  the  borders 
of  thy  church,  and  make  additions  to  it  daily  of 
such  as  shall  be  saved.  O  that  all  who  are 
called  Christians,  may  be  truly  Christians,  both  in 
their  right  believing  and  their  holy  living.  Ad- 
vance the  interest,  and  extend  the  limits  of  thy 
Son's  kingdom,  and  may  all  nations  flow  into  it, 
as  to  their  rest.  Bless  our  land,  and  endue  our 
rulers,*  and  those  who  direct  our  public  affairs, 
with  wisdom  from  on  high.  Give  our  judges  the 
spirit  of  discernment,  and  aid  and  countenance 
our  magistrates  in  the  faithful  execution  of  their 
office.  Make  them  all  men  fearing  God,  arid  es- 
chewing evil. — And  O  that  all  who  are  called  to 
serve  at  thy  altar,  may  be  blessed  with  skilful 
heads,  and  compassionate  hearts,  and  exemplary 
lives.  Make  them  wise  to  win  souls,  and  faithful, 
industrious  and  successful  in  their  sacred  office, 
as  workmen  that  need  not  be  ashamed.  Bless 
and  prosper  all  the  places  of  good  learning  and 

*  Varied  from  the  English  copy ;  where  the  petition  is  for  "  the  Kingv 
that  he  may  judge  thy  people  righteously,"  £c. 

F 


62  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

education ;  and  make  all  this  people  the  Lord's 
people ;  that  they  may  all  know  thee  from  the 
greatest  to  the  least ;  and  so  order  their  conver- 
sation aright,  that  they  may  see  the  salvation  of 
God.  Remember  them  all  for  good,  who  have 
been  any  way  instruments  of  our  good;  such  as 
have  done  us  good,  O  Lord,  reward  them ;  and  all 
that  have,  or  would  hurt  us,  O  Lord  forgive  them. 
Give  unto  all  that  mourn  in  Zion,  beauty  for 
ashes,  the  oil  of  gladness  for  mourning,  and  the 
garments  of  praise  for  the  spirit  of  heaviness. 
And  in  the  time  of  our  health,  and  peace,  and 
prosperity,  O  that  we  may  remember,  and  pro- 
vide for,  the  time  of  trouble  and  sickness,  and 
death;  when  all  worldly  succours  will  fail  us;  and 
the  greatest  powers  on  earth  cannot  deliver  us 
out  of  thy  hands.  O  make  us  now  so  mindful  of 
our  duty  that  then  thou  mayest  remember  in 
mercy;  and  be  with  us  and  support  us,  and  never 
leave  nor  forsake  us. 

Our  own  unworthiness  would  make  us  despair 
of  obtaining  all  these  great  and  good  things 
which  we  beg  at  thy  hands,  O  Lord;  but  the 
remembrance  of  thy  continual  bounty,  and  how 
much  we  are  every  day  receiving  from  thee,  puts 
life  into  our  hopes,  and  encouragement  into  our 
prayers,  and  leaves  us  no  reason  to  doubt  of  such 
tried  mercy.  And  blessed  forever  be  thy  name, 
that  we  have  so  much  to  say  of  thy  goodness,  by 
our  own  experience  of  the  innumerable  blessings 
thou  art  daily  bestowing  upon  us.  O  good  Lord! 
continue  such  thy  gracious  favour  to  us,  and  thy 
fatherly  care  over  us  this  night.  As  we  go  to 
rest  after  the  labours  of  the  day,  so  help  us  to 
do  thy  work  that  we  may  enter  into  that  rest 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  63 

which  remains  for  thy  people  in  the  close  of  this 
life.  And  so  discharge  us  from  our  sins,  and 
supply  us  still  with  thy  grace,  that  we  may  finish 
our  course  with  joy,  and  in  the  end  of  our  lives 
find  the  greatest  of  all  mercy,  to  be  received  into 
thy  glory :  which  we  beg  for  the  all-sufficient 
merits  of  our  only  Redeemer;  for  whom,  and  to 
whom,  with  thee,  O  everlasting  Father,  and  the 
Holy  Ghost  the  Comforter,  in  the  unity  of  the 
ever  glorious  Trinity,  be  all  praise,  and  honour 
and  glory  ascribed  of  us,  and  of  all  the  Israel  of 
God,  now  and  for  evermore.  Jlmen* 


Jl  seventh  Evening  Prayer 

OLORD,  the  great  and  glorious  God,  infinite 
in  power,  wisdom  and  goodness ;  the  won- 
derful maker  and  preserver,  ruler  and  disposer, 
of  us  and  of  all  the  world !  thou  hast  created  all 
things  by  thy  Almighty  hand !  sustainest  and 
orderest  all  that  thou  hast  made  by  thy  wise  and 
righteous  Providence  ;  and  thy  mercy  is  ever- 
lasting, and  over  all  thy  works.  O  who  is  able 
to  express  or  conceive  the  exceeding  riches  of 
that  grace  and  goodness  of  the  Lord,  which  in 
such  a  plentiful  measure  is  still  descending  and 
overflowing  upon  poor  sinful  creatures,  who  de- 
serve nothing  from  thee  but  to  be  forsaken  and 
abhorred  by  thee !  This  day,  and  every  day  of 
our  lives,  O  Lord,  we  have  tasted  largely  of  thy 
mercy,  and  lived  altogether  still  upon  thy  fatherly 
care  and  bounty. 

But  notwithstanding  all  thy  patience  and  gra- 
cious dealings'*  with  us,  and  all  the  repeated 
pledges  of  thy  favour  and  kindness  to  us ;  O  how 


64  Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family. 

ill  have  we  requited  thy  love !  And  what  unsuit- 
able returns  have  we  made  for  all  thy  great  and 
continued  goodness  that  we  have  found !  Beside 
the  guilt  of  our  inbred  corruption,  which,  as  a 
sore  clog,  hangs  heavy  upon  us;  we  are  amazed 
at  the  greatness  and  multitude  of  all  our  other 
sins  that  we   have  committed  against  the  light 
and  teachings  of  thy  gospel,  against  the  dictates 
and  strivings  of  thy  Spirit,  and  the  love  and  suf- 
ferings of  thy  Son :   against  all  the  patience  and 
long  forbearance  which  thou  hast  exercised  to- 
wards  us ;   and  against  the  many  mercies   and 
methods  of  our  conversion  and  sanctification, 
wherewith  from  time  to  time,  thou  hast  sought  to 
make   us  such  as  thy  word  requires  we  should 
be.     O  Lord,  we  have  given  thee  so  great  pro- 
vocation, that  we  are  afraid  lest  thou  shouldst 
forsake  us  utterly,  and  cause  the  day  of  thy  pa- 
tience to  be  at  an  end  with  us,  and  grant  us  no 
more   of  thy  grace  which  we  have  so  greatly 
abused,   no  more  of  thy  holy  Spirit,  which  we 
have  so  frequently  refused.     And  what  have  we 
now  but  judgment  to  expect  from  thee,  O  Lord, 
but  that  thy  mercy  rejoices  over  judgment !  And 
thy  word  assures  us,  that  thou  delightest  not  in 
the  death  of  sinners,  but  rather  that  they  should 
turn   to   thee    and   live.     Therefore    still   thou 
leavest  us  these  opportunities  to  appear  before 
thee,  to  plead  with  our  God,  for  the  life  of  souls 
that  have  sinned  against  thee.    And  what  have 
we  to  plead,  O  blessed  Lord,  but  thy  own  gra- 
cious nature,  and  merciful  inclinations,  and  the 
many  promises  and  declarations  of  thyself  which 
thou  hast  made  to  returning  sinners  in  Jesus 
Christ !     Thou  hast  sent  thine  only  Son  to  be 


Evening  Prayer  for  a  Family.  65 

our  only  Saviour ;  and  he  that  did  no  sin  was 
manifested  to  take  away  our  sins.  O  for  his  sake 
be  thou  pleased  to  pity  us,  and  spare  us,  and  for- 
give us.  Turn  away  thy  wrath  from  us;  receive 
us  to  thy  blessed  favour;  and  comfort  us  with 
the  sure  persuasion,  that  our  great  and  many 
sins  are  remitted. 

And  because  such  is  the  infirmity  of  our  na- 
ture, that  without  thy  grace  we  have  not  the 
least  power  to  keep  ourselves  even  from  the 
greatest  sins  ;  O  grant  us  the  increase  of  thy 
grace,  and  such  help  of  thy  good  Spirit,  as  may 
fortify  us  against  all  temptation,  and  make  us 
willing  and  faithful,  and  diligent  in  thy  service. 
And  be  pleased,  O  Lord,  yet  further  to  discover 
arid  manifest  thyself  to  our  souls,  that  we  may 
know  aright  thee,  the  only  true  God,  and  Jesus 
Christ  whom  thou  hast  sent.  And  give  us  pow- 
er from  on  high  to  enable  us  so  to  live  and  prac- 
tise, according  to  that  light  and  knowledge  of 
our  duty  which  thou  art  pleased  to  impart  unto 
us,  that  we  may  not  hold  the  truth  in  unrighte- 
ousness, knowing  the  better,  and  doing  the 
worse,  but  may  walk  in  the  light,  as  children  of 
light,  while  we  have  it ;  that  we  may  never  in 
judgment  be  deprived  of  it.  O  let  us  not  only 
be  almost,  but  altogether  Christians ;  sincere 
converts,  true  penitents,  and  sound  believers. 
And  wilt  thou,  O  God,  that  workest  all  in  all,  do 
that  work  of  thy  grace  thoroughly  upon  all  our 
hearts ;  for  which  we  may  have  cause  to  give 
thee  praise  and  glory  to  all  eternity. 

Which  things  we  beg  not  only  for  ourselves, 
but  for  all  the  partakers  of  our  nature,  whom 
thou  hast  made  to  share  in  our  hopes  and  capa- 

F  2 


66         Morning  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

cities  of  eternal  happiness ;  especially  for  thy 
whole  church,  wheresoever  or  howsoever  dispos- 
ed of  over  all  the  earth ;  for  all  in  authority,  from 
the  highest  even  to  the  lowest ;  for  our  minis- 
ters and  teachers ;  for  our  relations  and  neigh- 
bours; our,  friends  and  benefactors ;  and  for  all 
thy  afflicted,  whatsoever  be  their  trials  and 
troubles.  O  supply  all  their  wants,  and  fulfil  all 
their  desires,  so  as  thy  wisdom  sees  best,  for  thy 
own  mercy's  sake  in  Jesus  Christ. 

Thou,  Lord,  art  the  great  Preserver  of  men, 
who  hast  kept  and  blessed  us  to-day,  and  all  our 
days.  Praised  be  thy  name  for  all  thy  goodness, 
which  we  so  long  and  largely  have  experienced. 
O  make  us  sensible  and  thankful,  as  we  are  oblig- 
ed to  be.  Take  care  of  us,  O  Lord,  and  be 
good  to  us  this  night.  Give  us  bodily  rest  in 
our  beds,  and  rest  for  our  souls  in  thyself.  And 
be  thou  our  God  and  guide,  our  hope  and 
help,  our  joy  and  comfort,  and  all  in  all  to  us  this 
night,  and  for  evermore.  jQmen. 

Morning  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  day. 

OMOST  blessed  and  gracious  Lord  our  God, 
whose  Almighty  hand  has  brought  us  out 
of  nothing,  to  what  we  are ;  to  see  the  light,  and 
enjoy  the  comforts  of  life ;  and  whose  free  grace 
has  called  us  out  of  a  state  worse  than  nothing 
to  the  hope  of  thy  heavenly  glory  !  We  bless 
thy  name,  that  thou  hast  conducted  us  safe, 
through  all  states  and  events,  and  through  all 
the  trials  and  troubles  in  our  lives,  to  see  the 
comfortable  light  of  this  day;  and  that  we  have 
yet  a  day  of  grace  wherein  to  see  the  things  be- 


Morning  Prayer  for  the  Lortfs  Day.         67 

longing  to  our  peace.  We  bless  thee  that  thou 
hast  so  far  consulted  the  good  of  our  souls,  as 
well  as  the  glory  of  thy  name,  in  setting  apart 
this  day  for  holy  uses,  to  engage  us  to  a  solemn 
attendance  upon  the  Lord ;  in  whose  service 
consists  all  our  honour  and  happiness.  O  how 
much  higher  might  we  have  been  in  grace,  and 
thy  blessed  favour — how  much  nearer  to  thee 
our  God,  and  fitter  for  thy  heavenly  kingdom, 
Had  we  rightly  used,  and  conscientiously  im- 
proved those  seasons  and  means  of  grace,  which 
thou  hast  been  pleased  to  put  into  our  hands,  for 
the  best  advantage  of  our  souls. 

But  we  have  been  unkind  and  cruel  to  our 
own  souls,  as  well  as  disobedient  and  rebellious 
against  our  Lord;  many  times  frustrating  the 
opportunities  of  appearing  before  thee ;  shunning 
and  neglecting  the  duties  of  thy  holy  service ; 
and  even  when  we  have  set  ourselves  to  seek 
thy  face,  it  has  been  with  such  coldness,  and 
dulness,  rudeness  and  distraction,  that  thou 
mightest  justly  abhor  our  souls,  despise  our 
prayers,  and  cast  back  all  our  services  in  our 
faces,  for  any  thing  that  there  is  in  us  or  them, 
to  recommend  us  to  thy  blessed  favour  and  ac- 
ceptance. 

But  be  thou  pleased  to  look  upon  us  in  the 
Son  of  thy  love,  the  Lord  our  peace  and  righte- 
ousness; and  forgive  us  all  that  is  past  wherein 
we  have  neglected  thy  work,  or  ill-performed  it, 
or  done  what  is  inconsistent  with  it.  Help  us,  O 
God  of  our  salvation,  and  deliver  us  from  the 
bands  and  the  burden  of  our  guilt;  and  purge 
away  all  our  sins,  for  the  glory  of  thy  name  ;  that 
they  may  not  stand  as  a  partition-wall,  to  hinder 


68         Morning  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

the  desire  of  our  souls  from  ascending  up  to  thee; 
nor  hinder  the  light  of  thy  countenance  from  de- 
scending upon  us.  But  let  thy  peace,  and  love, 
and  favour  shine  on  our  souls ;  that  we  may  see 
the  felicity  of  thy  chosen,  and  with  joy  draw  wa- 
ter out  of  the  wells  of  sah7ation. 

O  let  us  hot  rest  in  any  forms  of  godliness,  de- 
nying the  power  thereof;  nor  take  up  with  the 
name  and  show,  and  the  profession  of  Christiani- 
ty, but  be  swayed  with  its  life,  and  power  and 
spirit;  that  the  gospel  of  our  Lord,  and  the 
graces  of  the  good  Spirit  of  God  may  shine  forth 
in  our  lives,  to  the  glory  of  thee  our  heavenly 
Father;  and  to  the  adorning  of  the  doctrine  of 
God  our  Saviour  in  all  things.  O  gracious  God, 
be  with  us,  and  with  all  the  ministers  and  stew- 
ards of  thy  holy  things,  who  are  this  day  to 
speak  thy  word  to  thy  people :  and  furnish  them 
with  abilities  suitable  to  their  great  work,  that 
they  may  fitly  apply  themselves  to  the  capaci- 
ties, and  to  the  necessities  of  their  several  hear- 
ers. And  grant,  Lord,  unto  us,  and  unto  all  the 
hearers  of  thy  holy  word,  humble  and  teachable 
spirits;  to  receive  thy  truth  in  meekness,  and  in 
the  love  of  it,  so  as  to  profit  and  grow  by  it.  O 
do  thou  remove  all  the  hinderances  of  our  spi- 
ritual growth  and  improvement,  that  thy  word 
may  have  free  course,  and  be  glorified  among  ijs. 
And  let  us  this  day  go  forth  in  the  strength  of 
the  Lord  God ;  and  prosper  and  increase  with 
the  increase  of  God,  by  thy  grace  and  blessing 
accompanying  our  desires  and  endeavours;  till 
from  serving  thee  imperfectly  here  upon  earth, 
we  may  attain  to  glorify  and  enjoy  thee,  our  God, 
in  the  perfection  of  holiness,  and  in  those  ever- 


Morning  Prayer  for  the  LorcTs  day.         69 

lasting  joys  and  glories  of  thy  kingdom,  which 
thou  hast  prepared  for  them  that  love  thee. 

And  let  thy  grace  and  blessing,  thy  love  and 
fellowship,  thy  direction  and  assistance,  O  hea- 
venly Father,  Son  and  Holy  Spirit,  be  with  us 
and  with  all  whom  we  ought  to  beg  thy  mercy  for 
in  our  prayers,  this  day,  and  for  evermore.  Amen 

Another  Morning  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

OLORD,  the  great  Almighty  God,  thou  art 
the  giver  of  life  and  strength,  and  of  all 
grace  and  goodness ;  without  whom  we  can  do 
nothing;  and  through  whose  gracious  assistance  it 
is,  that  we  are  enabled  to  do  all  things  belonging 
to  thy  service  and  our  duty;  we  humbly  pray, 
that  thou  wilt  be  graciously  present  with  us,  and 
powerfully  assistant  unto  us  this  day,  to  direct 
and  quicken,  and  enable,  and  futher  us  in  all  the 
ways  and  duties  of  thy  holy  service.  O  forgive 
our  iniquities,  that  separate  between  thee  and 
our  souls ;  and  remember  not  the  sins  against  us, 
which  may  justly  provoke  thee  to  hide  thy  face 
from  us.  But  according  to  thy  mercy,  remember 
thou  us,  O  Lord,  and  accept  us,  and  our  poor 
imperfect  services,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ. 
O  leave  us  not  to  the  dulness  and  hardness, 
the  vanity  and  deceitfulness  of  our  own  depraved 
hearts;  but  show  the  power  of  thy  heavenly 
grace,  in  working  mightily  upon  these  hearts  of 
ours;  to  bring  and  keep  them  in  such  a  holy 
frame,  that  we  may  be  fitter  to  attend  upon  thee, 
and  perform  more  faithful  and  acceptable  service 
to  thee,  and  enjoy  more  of  that  heavenly  com- 
munion with  thee,  which  thou  hast  made  us 


70         Morning  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

capable  of;  and  which  our  souls  will  be  forever 
restless  without.  O  let  us  not  serve  t'hee  in 
formality  and  hypocrisy  making  any  duties  of 
course  the  cover  of  a  vain  licentious  life ;  but  let 
our  hearts  and  souls,  and  all  that  is  within  us,  be 
taken  up  in  a  revered,  faithful  and  affectionate 
attendance  upon  thee.  Nor  let  us  serve  thee  of 
constraint,  only  because  we  must;  but  with  all 
readiness  and  gladness,  and  love  and  delight  to 
be  so  engaged;  making  thy  pleasure  to  be  ours, 
and  the  Sabbath  and  service  of  our  Lord,  the 
joy  and  solace  of  our  souls.  O  help  us  so  to 
sanctify  thy  day,  that  thy  day  may  be  a  means  to 
promote  the  sanctification  of  our  souls.  Let  us 
bestow  ourselves  in  exercises  befitting  the  holy 
season ;  and  not  profane  it  to  any  vain  and  vi- 
cious purposes.  But  on  the  Lord's  day  may 
we  abound  in  the  work  of  the  Lord ;  and  not  do 
our  own  work,  nor  find  our  own  pleasure,  nor 
speak  our  own  words,  in  the  day  which  thou  hast 
hallowed  for  thyself;  but  rest  from  all  our  sinful 
ways,  as  well  as  from  our  common  labours ;  and 
so  delight  ourselves  in  the  Lord,  that  thou  may- 
est  give  us  the  desires  of  our  hearts. 

And  bless  to  us  thy  word,  O  gracious  Father, 
and  all  the  means  of  grace,  which  through  thy 
favour  we  do  enjoy,  that  we  may  not  use  the 
same  in  vain,  nor  to  our  hurt ;  but  for  the  further 
informing  of  our  minds,  the  reforming  of  our  lives, 
and  the  saving  of  our  souls;  still  growing  in 

§race,  and  in  the  knowledge  of  our  Lord  and 
aviour  Jesus  Christ ;  till  we  attain  to  be  such  as 
thy  holy  word  requires  we  should  be,  in  all  holy 
conversation  and  godliness. 

Great  peace  have  they  that  love  thy  law,  and 


Morning  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day.         7! 

nothing  shall  offend  them.  O  dear  Lord,  in- 
crease our  love  to  thy  word,  which  the  angels 
desire  to  look  into,  and  make  our  souls  pliable 
and  submissive,  to  be  turned  and  ruled  by  it,  till 
we  become  in  all  things  agreeable  to  it. 

Bless  us,  our  Father,  and  command  a  blessing 
upon  all  our  pious  designs  and  performances  this 
day ;  and  bless  thy  servants  whom  thou  hast  ap- 
pointed to  bless  us  in  thy  name,  and  to  break  the 
bread  of  life  to  our  souls,  that  they  may  speak 
thy  word  as  they  ought  to  speak;  and  give  to 
every  one  their  portion  in  due  season.  And 
that  thy  word,  which  they  deliver,  may  be  to 
our  conviction,  edification,  and  comfort,  and  the 
savour  of  life  to  our  souls.  O  thou  that  hast  the 
key  of  David,  and  openest  and  no  man  shutest, 
thou  that  speakest  to  the  heart,  and  givest  the 
increase;  open  to  our  understandings  to  receive 
thy  truth,  both  in  the  light,  and  in  the  love  of  it. 
And  set  it  home  so  powerfully  upon  our  hearts, 
and  root  it  so  deep  in  our  souls,  that  the  fruits 
may  be  seen  in  our  lives ;  we  being  not  forgetful 
hearers,  but  faithful  doers  of  thy  word. 

And  grant,  O  good  God,  that  our  services  this 
day  may  be  such,  as  may  tend  to  our  advantage 
and  rejoicing,  in  the  great  day  of  thy  appearing 
and  glory;  that  we  may  so  hallow  these  Sabbaths 
here  upon  earth,  that  hereafter  we  may  be  ad- 
mitted to  the  joyful  celebration  of  the  eternal 
Sabbatism  in  thy  kingdom  of  heaven;  there  with 
all  the  church  triumphant,  to  laud  and  magnify 
thy  glorious  name,  and  to  enjoy  thy  love,  and 
sing  thy  praise  forever.  And  for  the  addition 
of  this  Sabbath  to  all  the  rest,  for  the  benefit  of 
thy  word,  and  the  ordinances  of  thy  worship,  and 


72          Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

all  the  means  of  grace,  and  hopes  of  thy  eternal 
glory,  to  thee,  the  God  of  all  grace,  be  the  praise, 
and  honour,  and  glory  rendered  by  us,  and  by  all 
thine,  and  from  this  time  forth,  and  for  evermore. 
Jlmen. 


Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

OLORD,  our  God !  thou  art  infinitely  g@od, 
and  thou  hast  showed  us  what  is  good,  and 
what  thou  requirest  of  us  for  our  own  greatest 
good  always;  that  it  may  go  well  with  us,  both 
now,  and  to  all  eternity.  Thou  sendest  out  thy 
light  and  thy  truth  amongst  us,  to  make  the  way 
of  life  and  salvation  plain  before  us ;  and  thou 
givest  us  many  opportunities  arid  advantages  to 
quicken  and  further  us  in  thy  knowledge  and 
service,  and  in  that  way  of  our  duty  which  leads 
to  the  kingdom  of  thy  glory.  We  have  line  upon 
line,  and  precept  upon  precept;  thy  messengers 
early  and  late,  to  open  and  apply  thy  word ;  and 
to  give  us  calls  and  warnings,  directions  and  ex- 
hortations, for  the  promoting  of  our  edification 
here,  and  our  salvation  forever.  Thou  hast  not 
been  wanting  to  us,  O  Lord,  but  we  have  been 
exceedingly  wanting  to  ourselves,  and  to  the  du- 
ty which- we  owe  unto  our  God!  And  O  how 
little  is  it  to  be  seen  in  our  lives,  how  good  and 
kind  the  Lord  has  been  to  our  souls  !  How  have 
we  loved  darkness  rather  than  light,  and  chose 
to  follow  the  suggestions  of  our  own  foolish  and 
hurtful  lusts,  rather  than  to  be  guided  by  the 
rules  and  prescriptions  of  thy  holy  blessed  word, 
that  has  no  design  upon  us,  but  to  promote  our 
present  peace  and  our  eternal  bliss !  And,  be- 


Evening  Prayer  for  the  LorcTs  Day.         73 

cause  we  have  so  little  improved  all  the  precious 
talents  which  thou  hast  put  into  our  hands,  thou 
mightest,  C  Lord,  justly  take  away  the  gospel  of 
thy  kingdom  from  us,  and  give  it  to  another  peo- 
ple, that  would  bring  forth  fruits  more  worthy  of 
it,  and  more  answerable  to  it,  than  we  have  done. 
Because  thou  hast  called,  and  we  have  refused; 
thou  hast  stretched  forth  thy  hands,  but  we  have 
not  regarded;  thou  mightest  therefore  leave  us 
to  our  own  perverseness  and  impenitence,  to  add 
sin  unto  sin,  till  our  iniquities  became  our  ruin. 

But  O  Lord  God,  merciful  and  long-suffering! 
we  humbly  beseech  thee  that  thou  wilt  not  so 
enter  into  judgment  with  thy  servants;  but  in 
mercy  pardon  all  our  contempt  of  thy  word,  and 
our  not  profiting  by  it,  and  all  the  means  of  grace 
that  we  have  had.  And  teach  and  help  us  for 
the  time  to  come,  better  to  use  and  improve  such 
gracious  opportunities  set  before  us,  to  the  glory 
of  thy  name,  and  the  true  benefit  of  our  souls. 
As  the  rain  descends  from  heaven  and  returns 
not  thither,  but  waters  the  earth,  and  makes  it 
fruitful,  so  let  not  thy  word  return  unto  thee  void; 
but  accomplish  thy  good  pleasure,  and  prosper  in 
that  whereunto  thou  art.  pleased  to  send  It.  O 
make  it  instrumental  and  effectual  to  work  thy 
grace,  where  it  is  not;  and  to  establish  and  in- 
crease it  where  it  is ;  to  edify  and  build  us  all 
up  in  the  true  fear  and  love  of  God,  and  in  the 
right  knowledge  and  faith  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ. 

And  though  we  cannot  now  find,  upon  the  re- 
view of  our  services  this  day,  that  we  have  duly 
kept  a  day  holy  to  the  Lord ;  yet  let  not  thy  day,  O 
gracious  God,  be  a  lost  day  to  us,  nor  thy  word 

G 


74         Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

as  water  spilt  on  the  ground ;  but  may  the  Spirit 
cause  thy  word  to  do  thy  great  and  gracious  work 
thoroughly  and  successfully  upon  all  our  hearts; 
for  which  we  may  have  cause  to  give  thee  praise 
and  glory  to  all  eternity.  And  as  we  perceive 
how  we  ought  to  walk,  and  to  please  thee  our 
God,  so  help  us  to  walk  more  worthy  of  the  Lord, 
unto  all  well-pleasing;  increasing  in  thy  saving 
knowledge ;  and  being  still  more  ready  to,  and 
more  rich  and  fruitful  in  every  good  work,  that 
is  pleasing  in  thy  sight  through  Jesus  Christ. 

At  his  hands,  O  Lord  our  God,  we  beg  thy 
gracious  acceptance  of  our  humble  returns  of 
praise  and  thanksgiving,  for  all  the  blessings  and 
favours,  spiritual  and  temporal,  so  freely  confer- 
red upon  us,  arid  so  long  vouchsafed  arid  conti- 
nued to  us,  even  throughout  our  whole  lives,  un- 
til this  present  time.  Thou  hast  dealt  gracious- 
ly with  us,  O  blessed  Lord,  and  been  exceed- 
ingly good  arid  kind  to  us,  not  only  beyond  all 
that  we  had  reason  to  expect  from  thee;  but 
above  all  that  we  are  able  to  express  here  be- 
fore thee.  We  bless  thy  name  our  heavenly  Fa- 
ther, that  in  so  many  respects  thou  hast  made 
us  to  differ  from  multitudes  in  the  world ;  who 
are  destitute  of  ihose  comforts  and  conveniences 
of  this  life,  and  means  and  hopes  of  a  better, 
which  through  thy  favour  to  us  we  do  enjoy. 
We  acknowledge  thee  in  all ;  and  we  desire  to 
ascribe  unto  thee  the  whole  praise  and  glory  of 
all.  Especially  our  souls  desire  to  bless  thee 
for  the  mercies  of  all  mercies,  which  thou  hast 
showed,  and  still  art  pleased  to  continue  to  our 
souls;  particularly  what  we  have  received  and 
experienced  this  day;  thy  house  open  to  us; 


Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day.         75 

the  word  of  salvation  sounding  in  our  ears,  and 
the  Spirit  of  God  striving  with  our  hearts ;  and 
helping  our  infirmities,  and  enlightening  our 
minds,  and  reviving  our  souls. 

O  that  we  may  not  receive  the  grace  of  God 
in  vain;  that  all  thy  mercies  may  not  be  lost  up- 
on us ;  but  that  we  may  better  answer  the  care 
and  kindness  of  heaven,  which  we  have  so  long 
and  largely  experienced,  and  that  we  may  so 
thankfully  receive  and  carefully  improve  thy  dis- 
tinguishing favours  to  us,  and  all  thy  bountiful 
dealings  with  us ;  that  thou  mayest  not  withdraw 
thy  tender  mercies  from  us,  but  still  continue 
thy  accustomed  goodness  to  us,  and  increase  thy 
grace  and  heavenly  blessings  upon  us,  and  re- 
joice over  us  to  do  us  good. 

In  mercy  pass  by  all  which  in  thy  most  pure 
and  holy  eyes,  from  which  nothing  is  hid,  have 
been  amiss  this  clay  past,  in  any  of  our  thoughts, 
desires,  expressions  or  actions.  O  pardon  our 
neglect  of  what  we  should  have  done,  and  our 
guilt  of  what  we  have  misdone.  Forgive  the  ini- 
quities of  our  holy  things ;  and  enter  not  into 
judgment  with  us,  even  according  to  the  best  of 
our  works  and  services;  but  overlook  all  our 
sins  and  failings,  and  imperfections,  through  our 
great  Mediator  and  Redeemer;  who  does  ap- 
pear in  the  presence  of  God  in  our  behalf,  and 
ever  lives  at  thy  right-hand,  to  make  intercession 
for  us.  And  for  Jesus  Christ,  the  blessed  Au- 
thor of  all  our  hopes  and  happiness,  and  for  all 
the  comforts  and  good  things  of  this  life,  and 
means  and  expectations  of  that  eternal  glorious 
life  to  come,  which  thou  art  pleased  to  give  ust 
together  with  him ;  not  unto  us,  O  Lord,  not  un- 


76         Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

to  us,  but  unto  thy  name  be  all  the  praise,  and 
honour,  and  glory,  humbly  and  heartily  rendered 
and  ascribed  of  us,  and  of  all  thy  church,  now 
and  for  evermore.  Amen. 

Another  Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lortfs  Day. 

OLORD,  thou  art  good  to  the  soul  that 
seeks  thee ;  thou  art  full  of  invitation,  and 
all  the  endearments  of  love,  to  draw  arid  encou- 
rage poor  sinners  to  come  unto  thee.  Thou  dost 
not  bid  us  seek  thy  face  in  vain,  nor  serve  thee 
for  nought;  but  art  a  Lord,  that  hath  pleasure 
in  the  prosperity  of  thy  servants,  and  payest  us 
not  according  to  our  poor-imperfect  services,  but 
givest  like  thyself,  infinitely  good  and  most  rich 
in  mercy :  the  gift  of  God  is  eternal  life  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  It  is  not  any  thing  in  thy 
laws.  O  gracious  Lord,  but  the  sinfulness  of  our 
depraved  nature,  that  makes  any  of  them  seem 
grievous  to  us,  which  are  all  holy,  and  just,  and 
good,  tending  to  promote  our  present  and  eter- 
nal happiness.  Nor  is  it  any  thing  in  thy  bless- 
ed service,  but  the  indisposedness  of  our  own 
vile  hearts,  that  makes  any  part  of  that  tedious 
to  us,  which  is  the  work  and  joy  of  angels,  and 
our  wisdom,  honour  and  interest ;  yea,  what  we 
may  make  our  delight  as  well  as  our  duty,  to 
perform.  Holy  God,  we  are  all  as  an  unclean 
thing,  and  all  our  very  righteousnesses  are  as  fil- 
thy rags;  nor  can  we  ever  hope  to  be  justified  in 
thy  sight,  upon  account  of  any  works  or  worth 
of  our  own ;  for  by  our  own  hearts  and  deeds  we 
are  reproved  and  condemned,  and  should  be  left 
speechless  in  thy  judgment,  if  thou,  O  Lord* 


Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day.         77 

shouldstcall  us  to  account,  according  to  the  me- 
rits even  of  our  best  services.  But  we  desire  to 
take  refuge  and  sanctuary  under  the  shadow  of 
our  crucified  Saviour ;  and  to  be  found  in  him,  not 
having  our  own  righteousness,  but  that  which  is 
by  the  faith  of  Jesus  Christ,  that  the  sharne  of  our 
nakedness  may  be  covered,  and  all  our  sinful  de- 
formities hid  from  thine  eyes;  that  thou  mayest 
forgive  us  mercifully,  and  receive  us  graciously, 
and  love  us  freely  in  the  Son  of  thy  love,  in  whom 
thou  art  well  pleased. 

Command  a  blessing,  we  pray  thee,  O  Lord, 
upon  the  word,  which  this  day  we  have  heard, 
and  upon  all  the  means  of  grace  that  have  been 
used  for  the  good  of  our  souls.  It  is  not  of  him 
that  planteth,  nor  of  him  that  watereth,  but  of 
thee,  our  God,  who  giveth  the  increase.  O  be 
thou  pleased  to  second  the  preaching  of  thy  word 
with  the  powerful  influences  of  thy  grace  and 
holy  Spirit;  that  it  may  be  the  savour  of  life  to 
our  souls,  and  the  power  of  God  to  our  salvation. 
O  let  us  so  hide  thy  word  in  our  hearts,  that  we 
may  not,  as  we  have  done,  sin  against  thee,  but 
that  it  may  be  as  a  treasure  within  us ;  to  stand 
us  in  stead,  in  every  hour  of  temptation,  and  in 
all  the  times  and  cases  of  our  need;  that  we 
may  walk  more  humbly  and  closely  with  our 
God,  and  more  conscientiously  and  circumspect- 
ly before  thee ;  and  be  so  obedient  to  the  holy 
precepts  of  thy  word,  that  finally  we  may  enjoy 
the  glorious  promises,  of  which  it  gives  us  the 
blessed  reviving  hopes. 

Supply  the  want  of  thy  public  ordinances,  we 
beseech  thee,  by  the  immediate  teachings  of  thy 
good  Spirit,  to  all  such  as  through  any  unavoida- 
G  2 


78         Evening  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

ble  impediments  are  kept  from  them;  and  con- 
tinue to  us,  O  gracious  Lord,  the  light  of  thy 
gospel,  and  all  the  happy  opportunities  which 
we  enjoy  for  our  souls'  advantage.  And  pre- 
serve us  also,  by  thy  grace,  from  the  curse  of 
barrenness,  under  all  thy  holy  means,  and  abun- 
dant mercies;  for  it  were  better  for  us  we  never 
had  them,  if  we  were  not  the  better  for  them. 
That  they  may  not,  therefore,  hereafter  rise  up 
in  judgment  against  us,  O  make  them  now  effica- 
cious to  us;  and  write  thy  lawrs  in  our  hearts,  and 
cause  them  to  accomplish  all  the  purposes  of 
thy  grace  in  our  souls,  and  to  shine  forth  with  a 
convincing  splendour  in  our  lives;  to  make  us 
every  way  such  as  thou  wouldst  have  us. 

And  now  we  give  thanks,  as  we  are  infinitely 
bound,  to  thee,  OLord  God,  our  heavenly  Father, 
for  the  mercies  of  this  day ;  and  for  thy  great 
mercy  and  goodness  that  has  hitherto  followed 
i?s  all  the  days  of  our  lives.  O  how  wonderful 
is  thy  patience  and  long-suffering,  that  thou 
ehouldst  all  day  long  stretch  forth  thy  hands  to 
a  rebellious  and  gainsaying  people  !  And  how 
unwearied  thy  kindness  and  love,  that  we  still 
enjoy  so  many  comforts  with  our  lives,  who  have 
taken  the  course  to  spoil  all  with  our  sins  !  Yea, 
that  thou  shouldst  not  withhold  the  greatest 
mercies  from  such  as  cannot  pretend  to  deserve 
the  least  at  thy  hands!  Blessed  be  thy  name,  O 
most  merciful  Father,  that  thou  hast  defended  us 
from  so  many  dangers  in  our  lives,  which  threat- 
ened to  destroy  us ;  and  delivered  us  out  of  so 
many  troubles,  under  which  we  should  have 
sunk  and  perished,  if  thou  hadst  not  been  nigh 
to  us,  arid  done  great  things  for  us.  We  bless 


Evening  Prayer  for  the  LorcTs  Day.          79 

thee  for  our  health  and  plenty,  peace  and  liber- 
ty ;  for  the  use  of  our  reason,  limbs  and  senses, 
and  for  the  comforts  of  all  thy  good  creatures ; 
for  the  kindness  of  friends,  and  safety  from  our 
enemies ;  for  the  benefits  and  refreshments  of 
society,  and  the  success  and  prosperity  of  our 
affairs  here  in  the  world.  But  above  all,  we 
bless  thee  for  the  mercies  and  blessings  relating 
to  the  world  to  come;  for  Jesus  Christ,  and  all 
spiritual  blessings  in  heavenly  things  in  him, 
lending  to  the  salvation  of  our  souls;  for  remem- 
bering us  in  our  low  estate,  and  sending  eternal 
redemption  to  us  by  the  hands  of  thy  dear  Son; 
for  the  light  and  direction  of  thy  word;  for  the 
teachings  and  strivings,  the  aids  and  consola- 
tions of  thy  Spirit;  for  all  the  means  and  helps 
which  we  have  to  do  us  good;  for  all  thy  grace 
wrought  in  us,  and  bestowed  upon  us;  and  for  all 
the  discoveries  and  hopes  of  eternal  glory  which 
thou  hast  given  to  us.  O  how  infinitely  indebt- 
ed are  we  to  the  kindness  and  love  of  God  our 
Saviour !  O  that  we  may  ever  be  sensible  and 
thankful  as  we  ought!  And  with  all  that  thou 
hast  given  us,  blessed  God,  give  us  hearts  filled 
with  thy  love,  and  lifted  up  in  thy  praise,  and 
devoted  to  thy  honour  and  service. 

We  can  but  acknowledge  the  vast  debt,  that 
we  are  never  able  to  pay.  We  cannot  praise 
thee  according  to  the  riches  of  thy  grace,  and 
the  multitude  of  thy  mercies;  but  we  desire  to 
bless  and  praise  thee,  with  all  the  capacities  and 
abilities  wherewith  thou  hast  blessed  us.  And 
help  us,  O  Lord  our  God,  to  glorify  thy  name, 
not  only  in  speaking  to  thy  praise,  but  so  entire- 
ly devoting  ourselves  to  thy  pleasure,  that  we 


80  A  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

may  be  thine  in  faithfulness,  and  in  the  sincerity 
of  our  hearts,  even  all  the  days  of  our  lives. 

O  make  us  truly  penitent  and  humbled  for  all 
which  this  day  we  have  done  amiss,  and  make 
us  unfeignedly  thankful  for  all  the  good  that  we 
have  received ;  and  for  all  which  thou  hast,  in 
any  manner  or  measure,  enabled  us  to  do  aright. 
The  evil  is  from  ourselves  alone,  and  to  us  be- 
long shame  and  confusion  of  face  for  it ;  but  all 
the  good  is  of  thy  free  grace,  and  thy  mere  mer- 
cy ;  and  to  thy  blessed  name,  O  Lord  our  God, 
be  all  the  praise  and  glory  rendered,  with  the 
most  sensible  and  grateful  hearts,  now  and  for 
evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  any  intermediate  time  of  the  LorcTs 
Day. 

OLORD,  the  God  of  glory!  thou  fillest  hea- 
ven and  earth  with  thy  presence,  fill  my 
heart,  I  pray  thee,  with  thy  grace,  and  the  mind- 
fulness  of  thy  presence  with  me ;  that  I  may  de- 
mean myself,  as  under  thy  awful  eyes,  and  ever 
manifest  in  thy  holy  sight,  who  art  cheerfully  and 
constantly  worshipped  and  attended  by  all  the 
heavenly  host  of  glorious  angels,  and  immortal 
spirits  above,  where  thousand  thousands  minister 
unto  thee,  and  ten  thousand  times  ten  thousand 
stand  before  thee.  O  happy  are  they  who  are 
ever  in  thy  blessed  presence,  and  still  taken  up  in 
the  joyful  contemplation  and  fruition  of  thee, 
and  the  things  above ;  who  have  an  everlasting 
period  put  to  all  their  sins,  and  troubles  and 
temptations,  here  below ;  and  have  their  souls 
full  of  holiness,  their  hearts  filled  with  joy,  and 


Ji  Prayer  for  the  Lortfs  Day.  81 

their  mouths  with  the  everlasting  praises  of  God. 
O  Lord,  look  down  from  heaven,  the  habitation 
of  thy  holiness,  and  the  throne  of  thy  glory,  and 
behold  with  pity  the  poor  rerpnant  of  thy  herit- 
age, who  are  yet  upon  our  warfare  and  pilgrim- 
age in  this  present  evil  world ;  beset  with  many 
and  mighty  malicious  enemies  of  our  souls,  and 
groaning  for  deliverance  from  the  bondage  of 
corruption,  that  we  may  be  brought  into  the  glo- 
rious liberty  of  the  childien  of  God. 

The  good  Lord  pardon  every  one  of  us,  that 
now  endeavour  to  prepare  and  set  ourselves  to 
seek  thy  face,  and  to  meet  and  enjoy  our  God  in 
the  ordinances  of  thy  worship :  though  we  be 
not  cleansed  according  to  the  purification  of  the 
sancttfary,  accept  us  in  thy  beloved  Son,  accord- 
ing to  what  we  have,  and  fill  us  with  thy  good 
Spirit,  to  make  us  what  we  would  be.  O  give 
me  a  devout  soul,  and  a  praying  heart;  that  I 
may  not  merely  go  over  the  words  of  prayer,  or 
rest  in  any  forms  of  godliness;  but  may  serve 
thee  with  my  spirit,  and  lift  up  my  heart  to  the 
Lord,  and,  as  much  as  is  possible,  converse 
above. 

It  is  good  for  men  to  draw  nigh  to  God ;  in 
whose  service  consists  all  our  honour  and  bliss. 
O  let  my  heart  rejoice  in  seeking  the  Lord;  and 
with  great  liveliness,  arid  love,  and  cheerfulness, 
let  me  frequent  thy  ways,  and  study  thy  words, 
and  admire  thy  works,  and  praise  thy  name.  I 
bless  thee,  my  God,  that  thou  hast  given  me  an 
understanding  to  know  thee,  a  heart  to  love  thee, 
and  a  soul  capable  of  waiting  upon  thee  in  the 
duties  of  thy  holy  immediate  service  here,  and 
capable  of  enjoying  thee  in  thy  eternal  heavenlj 


82  A  Prayer  for  the  Lord's  Day. 

glory  hereafter.  I  bless  thee  for  all  opportuni- 
ties and  advantages  which  I  have  to  serve  thee, 
and  to  work  out  my  salvation;  for  the  ministry  of 
reconciliation  cqmmitted  to  thy  servants,  for  all 
their  labours,  and  writings,  and  preachings;  and 
for  all  other  means  of  grace  and  helps  heaven- 
ward. 

O  give  me  also  such  a  love  to  thy  word,  that  I 
may  value  it  above  all  the  wealth  of  the  world, 
and  relish  it  better  than  all  the  pleasures  of  the 
flesh;  esteeming  the  words  of  thy  mouth  more 
than  my  necessary  food;  and  receiving  it,  not 
only  in  the  light  but  in  the  love  of  it,  that  I  may 
be  saved.  And  give  me,  Lord,  a  heart  to  fear 
thee,  and  keep  thy  .commandments  always,  that 
it  may  go  well  with  me  both  now  and  forever. 
O  let  me  so  make  thy  word  the  rule  of  my  life, 
that  it  may  also  be  the  ground  of  my  hope;  and 
while  it  is  sounding  in  my  ears,  O  be  thou  also 
teaching  my  heart  to  make  it  efficacious  and  sav- 
ing to  my  soul.  And  let  there  be  such  a  tran- 
script of  the  gospel  in  my  life,  that  I  may  not 
only  hear  what  it  says,  but  be  such  as  »t  de- 
scribes. O  gracious  God !  continue  the  light  and 
joyful  sound  of  thy  gospel  amongst  us ;  and  help 
us  so  rightly  to  use  it,  and  to  make  our  due  bene 
fit  of  it,  that  we  may  find  cause  to  bless  and  praise 
thee  for  it.  O  that  every  Sabbath  may  add  still 
to  our  stature  in  Christ  Jesus;  and  that  we  may 
so  sanctify  thy  Sabbaths  now  while  we  are  on 
the  way,  that  in  the  end  we  may  attain  to  the 
blessed  Sabbath  of  thy  everlasting  rest;  there  to 
live  in  the  sight  and  love,  and  in  the  enjoyment 
and  praises  of  thee,  our  God,  blessed  for  ever- 
more. Amen. 


Jl  Prayer  upon  the  Commandments.          83 

A  Confession  of  the  Sins  forbidden,  with  Prayer  for 
Grace  to  perform  the  Duties  enjoined  in  the  Com- 
mandments :  Preparatory  to  the  Sacrament,  or  at 
any  Time  of  Humiliation. 

OLORD,  the  great  and  glorious  God !  against 
whom  I  have  grievously  offended,  and  who, 
for  my  sins  art  justly  displeased;  I  know  not 
where  to  begin  or  end  with  the  rehearsal  of  all 
my  transgressions;  which  are  more  than  I  can 
remember,  and  greater  than  I  can  express.. 

Thou  art  God  alone,  and  there  is  none  beside 
thee,  that  hast  absolute  sovereignty  over  me,  and 
that  can  be  full  and  final  happiness  to  me.  But, 
O  Lord  my  God;  other  lords  besides  thee  have 
had  dominion  over  me.  I  have  idolized  things 
in  myself,  and  in  this  present  world;  and  have 
set  tLem  in  the  stead  of  God;  either  disbelieving 
thy  being,  or  forgetting  thy  presence,  or  dislik- 
ing to  retain  thee  in  my  thoughts;  and  living 
without  thee  in  the  world.  I  have  not  improved 
in  thy  knowledge,  answerable  to  the  means  of 
instruction  wherewith  thou  hast  blessed  me.  And 
that  I  have  no  more  and  better  knowledge  of 
God,  it  is  my  shame,  and  owing  to  my  sinful  dul- 
ness  and  negligence  in  that  which  does  most  of 
all  concern  me.  I  have  not  had  all  my  expect- 
ations from  thee,  nor  my  whole  dependence  up- 
on thee,  nor  my  chief  hope  and  delight  in  thee ; 
but  have  stuck  and  trusted  to  creature  comforts 
and  worldly  enjoyments;  things,  short  of  thee, 
my  God,  to  make  me  happy.  O  how  have  I 
hardened  my  heart  against  the  fear  of  thy  glori- 
ous Majesty;  who  can,  whenever  thou  pleasest, 
kill  and  cast  sinners  into  hell!  Making  bold  to 


84          <A  Prayer  upon  the  Commandments. 

sin  against  the  clear  light  which  thou  hast  caus- 
ed to  shine  upon  me !  And  how  have  I  shut  my 
heart  against  the  love  of  my  chief est  good;  who 
has  still  been  doing  me  good,  and  laying  fresh 
obligations  upon  me,  with  thy  renewed  favour, 
every  day !  Loving  the  creatures  and  any  sensu- 
al pleasures  more  than  the  God  blessed  forever. 

I  have  conceived  injurious,  unbecoming 
thoughts  of  thy  infinite  greatness  and  goodness, 
till  I  have  become  vain  and  wicked  in  my  ima- 
ginations ;*  thinking  the  most  high  and  glorious 
God  to  be  even  such  an  one  as  myself.  And 
instead  of  worshipping  thee  in  spirit  and  in  truth, 
it  has  been  after  my  own  fancy  and  humour,  in  a 
formal  customary  manner. 

O  what  light  account  have  I  made  of  thy  great 
name !  and  what  little  zeal  have  I  showed  for  thy 
honour  and  glory!  How  have  I  disregarded  thy 
word  arid  works,  thy  mercies  and  judgments,  thy 
calls  and  warnings,  and  all  thy  offers  and  invita- 
tions; and  either  neglected  the  offices  of  thy 
worship,  or  profaned  thy  holy  things,  and  abused 
religious  duties,  to  cover  my  own  offences;  draw- 
ing nigh  to  thee  with  my  mouth,  when  my  heart 
has  been  far  from  thee. 

Thy  day  I  have  not  remembered  as  I  ought, 
to  keep  it  holy;  but  have  used  as  common,  what 
thou  hast  set  apart  for  sacred;  and  borne  the 
holy  season  as  a  burden,  and  made  bold  with 
thy  hallowed  time  to  spend  it  upon  my  sloth  and 
lusts,  and  wordly  trifles  and  carnal  impertinences. 

O  how  have  I  failed  and  sinned  in  all  my  rela- 
tions. As  a  superior,  in  pride  and  vanity;  as  an 
inferior,  in  stubbornness  and  envy ;  as  a  parent 
and  child,  master  and  servant,  friend  and  neigh- 


A  Prayer  upon  the  Commandments.          #5 

bour;   not  discharging  my  duty  in  any  capacity 
as  I  ought. 

How  careless  have  I  been  of  my  own  and 
others'  souls!  how  passionate  and  unmerciful, 
contentious  and  revengeful !  Bitter  in  my  words, 
malicious  in  my  heart,  tempting  some  into  soul- 
ruining  sins;  and  not  doing  what  in  me  lies,  to 
keep  others  from  the  wicked  undoing  of  them- 
selves; not  exerting  my  desires  and  endeavours  to 
do  good  unto  all. 

0  Lord,  I  am  unclean,  unclean !   defiled  with 
filthy  imaginations  rolling  in  my  head,  and  lust- 
ful desires  harbouring  in  my  heart,  and  breaking 
out  in  corrupt  communication,  and   carnal   car- 
riage, and  intemperate  living  after  the  flesh.  Yea, 
I  have  been  guilty  of  the  spiritual  whoredom,  in 
forsaking  the  blessed  bridegroom  of  my  soul,  to 
cleave  to  lying  vanities;   and  to   keep  up  that 
friendship  with  the  world,  which  is  enmity  with 
God. 

1  have  been  unfaithful  in  the  unrighteous  mam- 
mon, and  not  honoured  thee  with  my  substance  ; 
nor  done  the  good  which   thou  hast  made  me 
capable  of  doing,  with  the  world's  good;  but  by 
idleness  and  injurious  intrenching  on  the  rights 
of  others,  or  by  profuse  consuming  my  portion  on 
my  own  lusts,  I  have  been  a  sacrilegious  usurper 
of  thy  good  creatures. 

O  what  vicious  liberties  have  I  taken  to  myself, 
in  speaking  evil  of  my  neighbours;  using  them  in 
my  words,  as  I  would  ill  resent  to  be  used;  slan- 
dering and  reviling,  dissembling  or  rash  judging ; 
and  often  wronging  the  truth,  to  avenge,  to  excuse, 
to  exalt  myself. 

O  what  a  nursery  of  covetous  and  carnal  desires, 
H 


86          A  Prayer  upon  the  Commandments. 

has  been  this  corrupt  and  wicked  heart  of  mine ! 
Cherishing  and  delighting  in  evil  motions;  repin- 
ing at  others'  welfare ;  coveting  all  to  myself, 
and  catering  only  for  the  flesh,  to  fulfil  its  lusts. 

Such  sins  I  have  committed  against  thy  holy 
law;  and  I  have  also  sinned  against  thy  gracious 
gospel,  O  Lord ;  not  acquainting  myself  with  the 
way  of  salvation  by  Jesus  Christ ;  but  neglecting 
60  great  salvation,  and  disregarding  the  only 
Saviour,  whom  to  know  and  win,  I  should  have 
accounted  all  things  else  but  loss  and  dung.  I 
have  not  been  awed  by  thy  threatenings,  nor  taken 
with  thy  promises;  nor  listened  to  the  calls  of 
thy  word,  nor  yielded  to  the  motions  of  thy  Spi- 
rit; nor  believed,  the  truths,  nor  loved  the  days, 
nor  plied  the  means,  nor  improved  the  opportu- 
nities, which  thou  hast  graciously  set  before  me; 
but  have  shut  my  eyes  against  the  things  of  my 
peace,  and  made  light  of  all  my  Saviour's  doings 
and  sufferings,  and  various  methods  for  the  sal- 
vation of  my  soul;  taking  pleasure  in  the  enemies 
of  his  cross ;  little  concerned  for  the  success  of 
his  gospel;  nor  laying  to  heart  my  own  or  others' 
sins ;  nor  seriously  repenting,  nor  fervently  pray- 
ing; but  doing  all  these  things,  as  if  I  did  them  not. 

Such  is  my  heavy  charge;  this  is  my  heinous 
guilt:  O  that  I  may  not  only  confess  it,  but  be  duly 
humbled  for  it !  And  lay  my  mouth  in  the  dust,  if 
so  be  that  yet  there  may  be  hope  !  And  is  there 
hope  for  such  a  great  and  provoking  sinner? 
Lord  of  love,  thou  hast  helped  many  poor  misera- 
ble souls  in  a  low  dangerous  case ;  and  many,  I 
believe,  are  now  triumphing  and  praising  thee  in 
glory,  who  much  and  long  rebelled  against  thee 
here  below.  Such  are  the  wonders  of1  thy  grace. 


A  Prayer  upon  the  Commandments  87 

to  get  thee  glory  in  seeking  and  saving  that  which 
was  lost.  And  thy  hand  is  not  shortened,  nor 
thy  mercy  abated ;  but  still  thou  art  able  and 
ready  to  help  and  save,  as  ever  thou  wast.  O 
put  me  in  the  way  where  all  thy  goodness  may 
pass  before  me  ;  and  help  me  to  exercise  such 
humiliation  and  repentance  in  thy  sight,  that  thou 
mayest  exercise  thy  pardoning  and  saving  mercy 
upon  my  soul ;  and  never  lay  my  sins  to  my  charge, 
but  upon  his  account  who  was  made  sin  for  us, 
though  he  knew  no  sin,  that  we  might  be  made 
the  righteousness  of  God  in  him. 

Nor  do  I  only  beg  for  pardon  of  sin,  but  also 
for  power  against  it.  That  thy  preventing  may 
dash  and  break  temptations  in  the  first  approach; 
and  thy  assisting  grace  enable  me  to  resist  in  the 
assault,  and  to  overcome  in  the  issue.  That  I 
may  never  fall  a  miserable  prey  to  the  cruel  ad- 
versary who  walks  about  as  a  roaring  lion,  seek- 
ing whom  to  devour.  And  turn  my  feet,  O  Lord, 
to  thy  testimonies ;  and  help  me,  with  an  enlarged 
heart,  to  run  the  way  of  thy  commands.  O  give 
me  grace  to  take  and  choose  thee  for  my  God ; 
and  to  know,  and  trust,  and  fear,  and  love,  and 
serve,  and  worship  thee  as  God.  Give  me  a 
true  reverence  for  thy  name,  zeal  for  thy  glory ; 
serious  devotion  and  constancy,  in  all  the  duties 
of  thy  holy  religion ;  conscientious  care  of  the 
sanctification  of  thy  day,  and  due  veneration  and 
affection  for  all  thy  holy  things. 

Help  me  also,  my  God,  rightly  to  discharge  all 
relative  duties,  that  I  owe  to  superiors,  equals, 
inferiors,  and  all  with  whom  1  have  my  conver- 
sation in  the  world;  that  I  may  give  no  just  offence 
to  any,  but  so  carry  towards  every  one.  as  to 


88          A  Prayer  upon  the  Commandments. 

Credit  my  holy  profession,  and  win  others  into 
the  love  of  it.  O  make  me  careful  of  my  own, 
and  of  others'  souls ;  peaceable  and  patient, 
merciful  and  kind  ;  desirous  of,  and  what  in  me 
lies,  endeavouring  to  promote  the  good  of  all ;  so 
loving  my  neighbour  as  myself.  O  make  me 
chaste  and  continent,  pure  in  heart,  sober  and 
modest  in  speech  and  carriage  ;  temperate  in  the 
use  of  thy  good  creatures;  given  to  prayer,  and 
all  the  exercises  of -godliness,  that  tend  to  morti- 
fy the  sinful  lusts  of  the  flesh.  Make  me  also 
faithful  in  the  unrighteous  mammon,  contented 
with  my  portion,  industrious  in  my  calling,  up- 
right in  my  dealing,  honouring  thee  with  my  sub- 
stance ;  and  doing  good,  and  not  hurt,  with  what 
thou  hast  given  me  of  the  world's  good.  Help 
me,  O  righteous  God,  still  to  love  and  own,  to 
confess  arid  maintain  the  truth;  candidly  to  in- 
terpret the  sayings  and  doings  of  others;  not  de- 
lighting in  their  shame,  but  being  as  tender  of 
their  reputation,  as  I  would  desire  they  should 
be  of  mine.  And  help  me,  O  my  Lord,  to  resist 
the  beginnings  and  first  risings  of  evil  motions  in 
my  mind ;  and  to  keep  my  heart  with  all  dili- 
gence, from  giving  any  harbour  there  to  covetous 
and  unclean  desires.  O  let  me  not  give  my  mind 
to  earthly  things ;  nor  be  carnally  minded,  which 
is  death ;  but  spiritually  minded,  which  is  life 
and  peace.  And  incline  my  heart,  O  good  God, 
to  meditate  and  love,  and  keep  thy  holy  laws. 

O  make  me  resolved  for,  and  in  love  with,  a 
life  of  holiness,  according  to  thy  blessed  will  and 
word.  And  let  me  not  only  think  and  purpose  to 
live  godly  in  Christ  Jesus,  but  bring  my  purposes 
into  actions,  my  actions  into  habits,  and  mj 


A  Prayer  before  the  Lord's  Supper.          89 

habits  into  a  holy  lasting  perseverance  ;  endur- 
ing so  to  the  end,  that  1  may  be  saved.  And 
through  the  ways  of  thy  holy  commands,  O  Lord, 
lead  me  to  the  joys  of  thy  heavenly  kingdom; 
that  having  my  fruit  unto  holiness,  [may  find  the 
end  everlasting  life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  before  the  Sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper. 

OWH  AT  am  I,  poor,  unworthy,  sinful  wretch, 
that  I  should  go  to  the  table  of  the  Lord,  and 
put  myself  on,  for  the  portion  of  his  saints !  Great 
God !  my  guilt,  and  shame,  and  fear,  do  pull  me 
back,  and  make  me  ready  to  conclude  it  pre- 
sumptuous and  vain  for  me  ever  to  expect  such 
high  honour  and  favour  from  thee,  after  I  have 
so  foully  misbehaved  myself  towards  thee.  I 
durst  not  think  of  making  so  near  approaches  to 
thy  holy  Majesty,  but  that  thou  art  pleased  to  in- 
vite and  command  us  so  to  do.  Nor  could  I  ever 
hope  for  such  heavenly  blessings  at  thy  hands, 
O  Lord,  but  that  thou  ^irt  so  infinitely  good  and 
kind,  even  to  such  as  deserve  nothing  from  thee ! 
but  to  be  forsaken  and  abhorred  by  thee.  In- 
stead of  stretching  forth  a  sceptre  of  mercy,  to 
invite  me  to  thy  table,  thou  mightest  with  the 
rod  of  thy  wrath  dash  me  in  pieces  as  a  potter's 
vessel :  and  instead  of  entertaining  me  with  the 
bread  of  life,  and  the  cup  of  blessing,  mightest 
give  me  the  bread  and  water  of  affliction ;  and 
throw  me  down,  where  I  should  in  vain  cry  out 
for  a  drop  to  cool  my  tongue. 

But  seeing  thou  art  pleased  to  call  even  sin- 
ners that  have  undone  themselves,  to  come  unto 
thee  for  help,  and  hast  appointed  this  sacrament 

H2 


90          Jl  Prayer  before  the  Lord's  Supper. 

as  a  means  of  conveyance,  to  help  them  to  par- 
don and  grace  that  stand  in  need  of  the  same; 
therefore,  seeing  I  do  extremely  need  thy  par- 
doning mercy,  and  thy  sanctifying  grace,  I  come, 
Lord,  though  polluted  and  unfit  to  appear  before 
thee  :  and  I  dare  not  but  come;  as  knowing  that 
I  shall  be  undone,  keeping  away  from  thee.  I 
come  not,  Lord,  because  I  am  worthy,  but  be- 
cause thou  art  rich  in  mercy.  I  come  as  the 
poor  starved  wretch  to  the  fire ;  I  come  as  the 
hungry  to  be  fed,  and  as  the  sick  and  maimed  to 
be  recovered  and  healed ;  that  I  may  wash  in 
the  blood  of  thy  Son,  and  be  cleansed ;  that  I 
may  receive  of  thy  infinite  fulness,  all  that  is 
wanting  in  my  wretched  self;  that  I  may  so 
touch  my  Saviour,  as  to  receive  virtue  from  him; 
to  heal  my  sinful  sores,  and  to  enable  me  for  thy 
faithful  service. 

O  that  I  may  come  in  the  humblest  manner, 
writh  all  reverence  and  godly  fear ;  and  with  the 
most  earnest  longings  after  Christ  Jesus;  and  the 
heartiest  resolutions  to  live  unto  him,  that  was 
pleased  to  die  for  me !  And  do  thou  instruct  mej 
O  Lord,  and  assist  me  in  the  examination,  the 
humiliation,  and  preparation  of  myself;  in  order 
to  my  safe  and  comfortable  participation  of  this 
holy  ordinance.  Before  I  compass  thy  altar,  wilt 
thou  purify  my  heart  by  deep  repentance  and 
faith  in  the  blood  of  our  great  Redeemer.  O  let 
me  receive  a  broken  and  bleeding  Saviour,  with 
a  broken  and  contrite  heart.  And  make  me  so 
willing  and  obedient  that  I  may  eat  the  good  of 
the  ordinance;  so  conformable  to  thee,  that  I 
may  find  communion  with  thee ;  and  may  have 
not  only  representation,  but  a  participation  of 


A  Prayer  before  the  Lord's  Supper.         91 

Christ  crucified.  O  turn  in,  my  Lord,  and  be 
not  as  a  stranger  to  the  soul  that  is  the  purchase 
of  thy  own  blood.  Enrich  thy  ordinance  with 
thy  presence ;  that  I  may  find  him  whom  my  soul 
desires  to  love,  and  whose  love  is  better  than 
wine ;  that  Christ  may  appear  and  be  known  to 
my  soul,  in  this  breaking  of  bread;  that  I  may 
receive  such  life  from  thee,  as  may  enable  me  to 
live  unto  thee ;  and  make  me  know,  that  thou 
abidest  in  me,  by  the  Spirit  which  thou  hast 
given  me. 

Blessed  Saviour !  weigh  not  mine,  but  thy  own 
merits ;  for  I  have  not  deserved  thee,  but  thou 
hast  redeemed  me.  I  can  never  be  worthy  of 
thee,  but  give  me,  I  beseech  thee,  such  agreea- 
ble dispositions,  apprehensions,  affections  and 
resolutions,  in  my  coming  to  thee,  that  I  may  eat 
and  drink  worthily  of  what  I  am  to  receive  from 
thee;  that  I  may  participate  of  thy  sacred  body 
crucified,  and  thy  precious  blood  shed  for  us,  with 
such  discerning,  and  reverence,  and  patience, 
and  faith,  and  love,  and  thankfulness,  as  I  ought 
to  do.  And  what  I  am  not  in  myself,  O  do  thou 
make  me,  out  of  thy  own  infinite  fulness ;  such  a 
meet  receiver  at  thy  table,  that  I  may  find  wel- 
come with  thee,  to  my  present  consolation  and 
my  everlasting  salvation. 

O  thou  that  hast  prepared  a  table  in  this  wil- 
derness writh  heavenly  provisions  for  our  souls, 
prepare  my  soul,  dear  Lord,  for  these  provisions; 
and  give  me  spiritual  appetite,  as  well  as  spiritual 
sustenance ;  that  as  the  hart  pants  after  the  water 
brooks,  my  soul  may  pant  after  thee,  O  God;  that 
with  desire  I  may  desire  to  eat  this  passover;  and 
so  open  my  mouth,  that  thou  mayest  fill  my  hun- 


92          A  Prayer  before  the  Lord's  Supper. 

gry  soul  with  thy  good  things,  and  so  lift  up  the 
everlasting  doors  of  my  heart,  that  the  King  of 
glory  may  come  in ;  that  Christ  may  dwell  in  my 
heart  by  faith,  and  abide  with  my  Spirit,  as  long 
as  I  am  to  abide  here  in  the  flesh. 

O  make  thy  ordinance  healing,  and  the  savour 
of  life  to  my  soul.  And  make  it  also  a  sealing 
ordinance,  to  clear  up  to  me  the  pardon  of  my 
sins,  and  the  assurance  of  thy  love.  And  as  thou 
sealest  the  covenant  of  grace,  O  let  me  seal  the 
covenant  of  obedience;  and  in  such  a  devout 
and  acceptable  manner  come  unto  thy  table,  that 
I  may  return  from  it  with  my  conscience  quieted, 
my  corruptions  subdued,  my  graces  increased, 
and  my  soul  encouraged,  with  an  enlarged  heart, 
to  run  the  way  of  thy  commands. 

Ah  Lord !  to  whom  should  I,  can  I  repair,  but 
unto  thee,  my  life,  my  strength,  and  my  Redeem- 
er !  O  thou  that  callest  unto  thee  the  labouring 
and  heavy-laden  sinners,  help  me  so  to  come  to 
thee,  that  in  thee  I  may  find  rest  for  my  soul. 
Thou  that  has  commanded  us  to  break  our  bread 
to  the  hungry,  O  break  the  bread  of  life  to  all  of 
us  that  hunger  and  thirst  after  righteousness; 
and  give  us,  O  Lord  God,  our  heavenly  Father, 
evermore  give  us  this  bread.  And  thou  that  art 
pleased  still  to  continue  to  us  the  liberty  and  ad- 
vantage of  this  ordinance  to  nourish  and  revive 
our  souls,  O  work  in  our  hearts  a  higher  esteem 
for  it,  and  a  greater  love  to  it.  And  in  our  pre- 
parations before  we  eat  and  drink  at  thy  table, 
in  our  communicating  there,  and  our  conversa- 
tion after,  O  teach  and  help  us  to  carry  beseem- 
ing the  holy  heavenly  feast ;  and  as  becomes  the 


A  Prayer  for  Self-Resignation  93 

redeemed  and  obliged  of  the  Lord,  and  the 
very  living  members  of  Jesus  Christ. 

Hear  me,  O  Lord  my  God,  and  forgive  me ; 
bless  and  direct  me,  quicken  and  assist  me  in 
the  work  now  laying  upon  me ;  and  be  good  to 
me,  and  deal  graciously  with  me;  that  I  may  dis- 
charge all  my  offices  heartily  as  to  the  Lord,  and 
with  good  acceptance  in  the  sight  of  God, 
through  the  beloved  of  my  soul,  the  only  Saviour 
and  Redeemer.  Amen,  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  Grace  to   resign    and  give  up  our- 
selves to  God. 

OMY  great  and  glorious  Maker,  and  Re- 
deemer, my  continual  preserver  and  keep- 
er, my  only  Lord  and  owner  !  thine  I  am  every 
way,  by  all  the  ties  of  duty  and  love ;  and  not  at 
my  disposal  to  do  what  I  will  with  myself;  for 
thou  hast  formed  me  for  thyself,  and  dearly  ran- 
somed me,  after  I  had  lost  myself.  Yea,  I  have 
been  solemnly  devoted  to  thee,  and  vowed  to  re- 
nounce all  tempters  of  my  heart  and  service,  that 
would  rival  with  my  blessed  Lord;  and  obedi- 
ently to  serve  thy  divine  pleasure,  and  to  walk 
in  thy  holy  ways,  all  the  days  of  my  life.  And 
to  be  so  true  and  faithful  in  the  covenant  of  my 
God,  is  not  only  my  obligation,  but  my  honour 
and  interest,  my  highest  perfection,  and  my 
greatest  bliss. 

But  with  confusion  and  remorse,  I  must  ac- 
knowledge, O  Lord,  how  1  have  sacrilegiously 
alienated  myself  from  thee,  and  most  foolishly 
and  wickedly  forsaken  thee,  to  serve  other  lords; 
yea,  to  be  under  the  power  and  servitude  of  my 
own  vain  humours  and  brutish  lusts ;  not  con- 


94  A  Prayer  for  Self-Resignation. 

cerned  so  much  to  please  thee,  as  myself;  as  if 
I  were  so  my  own,  that  I  had  no  Lord  over  me, 
to  whom  belongs  all  the  right  and  title  to  me.  O 
my  God !  forgive  and  mortify  this  wicked  and 
pernicious  selfishness  in  me;  and  let  me  no 
longer  Unjustly  withhold  myself  from  thee;  nor 
madly  expose  myself  to  ruin,  by  living  in  the 
world  without  thee;  nor  hang  in  a  tremulous 
suspense  between  God  and  mammon,  vainly 
thinking  to  hold  in  with  both ;  but  make  me  so 
wise  and  considerate,  not  only  of  my  duty  but 
of  my  own  felicity;  as  willingly  and  cheerfully  to 
surrender  and  devote  myself  to  the  blessed 
Author  of  my  being ;  that  so  I  may  both  answer 
the  end  for  which  I  was  made,  and  also  attain 
the  happiness  whereof  I  am  capable.  Seeing  all 
that  are  far  from  thee  shall  perish,  as  branches 
cut  from  the  living  root  that  feeds  them ;  and  I 
have  no  sufficiency  in  myself,  but  derive  all  my 
good  from  the  union  with  my  God ;  I  am  convinc- 
ed, O  Lord,  that  I  am  thine,  by  thy  undoubted 
right;  and  that  I  ought  to  yield  up  myself  for  such, 
by  my  own  free  choice  and  voluntary  act.  It  is 
best  for  me  so  to  do;-  and  I  can  never  do  well  in 
standing  off  from  it.  O  bring  me  to  it,  and  make 
me  Faithful  and  hearty  in  it. 

My.  Lord!  break  all  the  ties  that  detain  me 
from  thee,  and  seize  and  take  me  for  thy  own  ; 
yea,  keep  and  continue  me  in  thy  fear  arid  love 
to  my  life's  end.  And  upon  my  mind  and  memo- 
ry, upon  my  will  and  affection,  upon  my  heart  and 
conscience,  O  write  holiness  to  the  Lord;  and 
every  way  make  me  willing  wholly  to  be  thine. 
Let  thy  will  ever  be  mine  in  all  things ;  and  melt 
down  this  stubborn  will  into  a  ready  compliance 


Devout  Ejaculations.  95 

with  thy  holy  pleasure.  O  let  me  love  and  hate, 
and  joy  and  dislike,  as  thou  dost.  Let  my  soul 
and  body,  and  all  the  faculties  and  powers  of 
both,  be  under  thy  conduct,  and  employed  to  thy 
glory.  Let  all  that  I  am,  and  all  that  I  have, 
whatever  is  mine,  O  let  it.be  thine;  not  in  pre- 
tence only,  but  in  deed  and  in  truth.  And  never 
let  me  think  it  hard  to  renounce  all  for  thee  ;  who 
art  infinitely  better  than  all  else  that  ever  can 
tempt  me. 

O  help  me  so  sincerely  to  deny  myself,  that  1 
may  own  no  guide  and  ruler  but  my  great  Lord 
and  Proprietor;  that  my  eyes  may  be  ever  to- 
wards thee,  and  my  whole  dependence  upon 
thee ;  and  that  thou  mayest  be  all  in  all  to  me 
and  thy  word  my  rule,  and  to  promote  thy  honour 
and  pleasure,  my  great  aim  and  endeavour;  that 
in  all  things  thou  mayest  ever  be  regarded  and 
preferred,  and  glorified  by  me  through  Jesus 
Christ.  Amen. 


Some  devout  Ejaculations  and  Elevations  of  the  Soul, 

before  receiving  at  the  Lord's  Table. 
I.  T>LESSED  be  my  God,  that  again  is  pleas- 

JCp  ed  to  call  me  to  the  reconciliation-feast ; 
and  after  all  my  breaches  with  him,  and  all  my 
offences  against  him,  yet  to  grant  me  a  new  in- 
dulgence ;  and  to  seal  my  pardon  afresh  in  the 
precious  blood  of  his  dear  Son,  that  was  shed  to 
take  away  the  sins  of  the  world. 

II.  At  thy  gracious  invitation,  Lord,  I  am  bold 
to  come,  looking  for  that  blessed  benefit,  which  I 
know  myself  so  unworthy  to  receive ;  that  thou 
mightest  justly  bar  up  the  doors  of  mercy  against 
me,  and  withhold  thy  saving  good  from  me.  But 


96  Devout  Ejaculations 

thy  mercies,  blessed  God,  are  not  to  the  deserving 
and  worthy,  but  to  the  miserable  and  needy.  O 
let  me  find  them,  as  I  need  them;  according  to  the 
riches  of  thy  bounty,  and  according  to  the  great- 
ness of  my  necessity. 

III.  I  have  no  might  for  this  great  work;  but  I 
will  go  in  thy  strength,  O  the  Lord  my  God.  Give 
me,  I  beseech  thee,  the  dispositions  which  thou  re- 
quirest;  and  work  in  me,  what  thou  callest  for 
from  me.  O  let  me  find  thy  hand  upon  me,  thy  help 
with  me,  and  thy  grace  sufficient  for  me. 

IV  O  that  I  may  see  thy  power  and  thy  glory, 
so  as  I  have  seen  thee  in  the  sanctuary !  That  I 
may  share  in  the  heavenly  entertainment  of  thy 
children,  and  eat  and  drink  in  thy  presence,  that 
bread  of  life,  and  that  cup  of  blessing,  which  may 
be  the  life  of  my  soul,  and  make  glad  my  heart, 
even  with  the  joy  of  thy  salvation. 

V.  O  what  shall  I  do  at  thy  house,  and  thy  table, 
Lord,  if  thou  dost  not  appear  to  receive  and  enter- 
tain me?   O  that  thou  wouldst,  in  wonderful  con- 
descension, bow  the  heavens  and  come  down; 
and  make  me  experience  thy  presence  with  me, 
and  that  power  of  thy  Spirit  upon  me ;  and  that 
loving  kindness  of  thine,  which  is  better  than  life ! 

VI.  O  let  not  the  great  Lord  and  Lover  of  souls, 
keep  off*  as  a  stranger  to  my  soul !  But  look  forth 
at  the  windows,  and   show  himself  through  the 
lattice,  and  remember  me  in  saving  mercy,  where 
he  feeds,  where  he  makes  his  flock  to  rest;  and 
let  me  now  taste  and  see,  to  the  satisfaction  of 
my  soul,  how  good  the  Lord  is, 

VII.  I  desire  to  shelter  under  the  shadow  of* 
my  Lord  Redeemer;  and  to  be  found  in  Christ 
Jesus,   endued  with  that  righteousness  of  his 


before  receiving  the  LorcTs  Supper.  97 

which  is  sufficient  both  to  atone  for  all  my  guilt, 
and  also  to  fill  up  all  my  wants;  yea,  to  make  me 
complete  and  meet  for  the  love  of  God,  and  for 
the  felicity  of  his  chosen.  O  God  of  all  grace! 
give  me,  I  beseech  thee,  thy  Christ  to  be  my 
Jesus  ;  and  grant  me  a  particular  saving  interest 
in  that  great  redemption,  which  he  brings  to  the 
poor  sinful  lost  world  :  that  my  soul  may  magni- 
fy the  Lord,  and  my  spirit  may  rejoice  in  God 
my  Saviour. 

VIII.  O  thou  that  art  able  to  do  it,  bring  me 
into  the  bonds  of  the  covenant ;  and  let  me  vo- 
luntarily and  cheerfully  enter  it;  not  as  compel- 
led  to  it  or  aggravated  at  it ;  but  willing  and 
glad  with  all  my  heart,  to  be  secured  in  such 
blessed  hands. 

IX.  O  make  me  willing  in  the  day  of  thy  pow- 
er ;   and  may  I  this  day  experience,  Lord,  the 
powerful  workings  of  thy  blessed  Spirit ;  to  open 
and  enlarge  my  heart,  and  make  me  ready  and 
fit,  and  joyful,  to  receive  him  who  stands  at  the 
door  and  knocks;  even  to  receive  Christ  Jesus 
the  Lord  into  my  soul. 

X.  O  how  unworthy  am  I,  Lord,   that  thou 
shouldst  come  under  my  roof;  unworthy  to  eat 
the  crumbs  that  fall  under  thy  table !  but  thy  in- 
finite merits  can  cover  all  my  sins  and  unworthi- 
ness;  and  recommend  me  to  the  just  and  holy 
Majesty  of  heaven,  even  as  if  I  had  not  sinned. 
O  deal  so  graciously  with  me,  my  Lord,  and  my 
God,  I  beseech  thee,  and  forgive,  and  heal,  and 
help  me  ;  and  exercise  thy  power  and  pity,  and 
great  salvation  upon  me  ;  and  come  into  my  soul, 
with  all  the  blessings  and  consolations  of  thy 
comingj  into  the  world. 

I 


98  Thanksgiving  and  Prayer 

XI.  O  Lord  !  my  soul  is  polluted  and  unclean ; 
but  thy  precious  blood  can  cleanse  me  from  all 
my  sins  and  defilements ;  and  make  me  fit  to  re- 
ceive thee,  to  my  profit  and  comfort :  O  speak 
thou  the  word,  and  I  shall  be  clean  and  whole ;  and 
my  soul  shall  live  and  forever  bless  thy  name. 

XII.  Assist  me  mercifully,  O  Lord,  in  my  de- 
signs and  endeavours  to  obtain  -the   blessed  fru- 
itions, whereof  thou  hast  made  me  capable.     O 
forgive  my  unworthiness;  cover  my  deformities; 
help  my  infirmities;  quicken  my  dulness;   pre- 
pare me  for  thee;  draw  me  unto  thee;  bring  me 
into  the  enjoyment  of  thee ;  now  in  part,  as  far 
as  I  can  attain  ;  and  hereafter  in  fulness,  as  much 
as  my  heart  shall  desire,  and  that  forever. 

XIII.  O  that  thy  ordinance  now  may  be  the 
means  of  my  establishment;   to  derive  unto  my 
soul,  out  of  the  fulness  of  Christ  Jesus,  grace 
sufficient  to  make  me  holy  and  lively,  and  able 
for  my  duty ;  faithful  in  it,  and  constant  to  it ! 
And  what  I  have  not  in  myself,  Lord,  do  thou 
give  me ;  and  what  I  am  not  of  myself,  O  do  thou 
make  me,  for  thy  own  mercy's  sake.  Amen,  Amen. 

Thanksgiving  and  Prayer  after  the  Sacrament  of  the 

Lord's  Sapper. 

H"  DESIRE  with  all  my  soul  to  adore  and  mag- 
1  nify  thy  blessed  name,  O  Lord  God,  my  hea- 
venly Father,  for  all  the  expressions  of  thy  love 
and  bounty,  to  me  a  poor  unworthy  sinner.  Par- 
ticularly, for  thy  precious  favours  and  the  renew- 
ed pledges  of  thy  love  in  Christ  Jesus,  which  I 
have  received  from  thee  this  day;  that  thou  hast 
admitted  me,  not  only  into  thy  house  but  to  thy 
table ;  and  used  me  as  thy  friend  and  the  child 


after  the  Lord's  Supper.  99 

of  thy  family ;  who  deserves  to  be  cast  out  as  an 
enemy,  and  to  be  trampled  even  as  the  offscour- 
ing  of  all  things.  O  what  manner  of  love  is  this, 
that  I  should  fare  so  well,  and  deserve  so  ill  at 
thy  hands!  O  that  it  should  be  so  done  to 
wretched  sinful  men  !  that  the  God  so  greatly  of- 
fended by  us,  should  not  only  forgive  us,  but  en- 
tertain and  feast  us  with  all  the  good  things, 
which  our  blessed  Saviour  has  merited  and  pre- 
pared for  us  !  Lord,  what  is  man,  that  thou  art 
so  mindful  of  him,  and  the  son  of  man  that  thou 
so  visitest  him  !  And  what  am  I,  one  of  the  vilest 
and  sinfullest  of  men,  that  the  great  Lord,  so  ill 
used  by  me,  should  deal  so  exceeding  graciously 
with  me !  O  make  me  to  know  the  things  that 
are  freely  given  me  of  God,  and  how  much  I  do 
owe  unto  the  Lord,  for  all  thy  kindness  to  my 
soul,  which  thou  hast  redeemed  and  eternally 
obliged  to  thyself.  O  give  me  a  heart  deeply 
sensible  of  thy  mercy,  and  steadfastly  purposing 
to  live  to  thy  glory ;  that  I  may  show  my  thank- 
fulness for  thy  benefits,  by  my  obedience  to  thy 
precepts.  O  keep  me  mindful  of  the  vows  of 
God  upon  me ;  and  help  me  to  live,  as  having  my 
holy  Redeemer  now  dwelling  in  me. 

And  as  I  have  received  Christ  Jesus  the  Lord, 
so  enable  me  to  walk  in  him;  to  walk  more 
worthy  of  the  Lord  unto  all  well-pleasing;  to 
walk  in  love,  as  Christ  loved  us ;  and  to  go  on  in 
the  strength  of  what  I  have  received  from  thee, 
to  live  unto  thee;  following  after  holiness,  as  be- 
ing not  only  brought  so  nigh  to,  but  intimately 
conjoined  with  the  holy  one  of  God. 

As  I  have  eat  and  drank  the  sacramental 
bread  and  wine,  to  the  nourishment  and  refresh- 


100  Devout  Ejaculations 

ment  of  my  frail  body;  so  let  the  crucified  body 
and  effused  blood  of  God  my  Saviour,  noil 
rish  and  sustain  my  immortal  soul  unto  life  eter- 
nal ;  and  revive  me  with  the  sense  of  thy  pardon, 
and  peace,  and  love,  that  is  better  than  wine, 
and  better  than  life  itself. 

And  O  that  the  sacrifice  ot  Christ  Jesus,  that 
sacrifice  of  himself,  which  he  offered  upon  the 
cross,  and  which  I  have  this  day  been  commemo- 
rating at  thy  table,  may  atone  for  all  the  failings 
and  miscarriages  in  my  preparations  and  perform- 
ances! That  upon  the  account  of  that  grand 
propitiation  for  the  sins  of  the  whole  world,  I 
may  be  spared  and  accepted  with  thee  my  God, 
here  to  thy  blessed  love,  and  hereafter  to  thy 
heavenly  glory ;  through  him  that  gave  himself 
for  us,  and  has  also  given  himself  to  us  ;  even  the 
Son  of  thy  love,  and  the  great  Lover  of  our  souls ; 
for  whom,  and  to  whom,  with  thy  eternal  Self 
and  holy  Spirit,  be  all  thanks  and  praise,  and 
honour,  and  glory,  ascribed  of  me,  and  of  all  thy 
church,  now  and  for  evermore.  Amen. 


Some  devout  Ejaculations  and  Elevations  of  the  Soul, 

after  receiving  at  the  Lord's  Table. 
I.  1T\  LORY  be  to  thee,  O  Lord  our  God,  that 
HjBT  in  our  extreme  need  of  a  Redeemer, 
thou  hast  made  such  gracious  provision  for  our 
souls ;  and  sent  thy  Son  to  die  for  our  sins,  and 
to  save  us  who  had  destroyed  ourselves.  And 
that  he  who  offered  himself  upon  the  cross  for  us, 
is  pleased  to  offer  himself  at  his  table  unto  us; 
where  I  have  been  tasting  the  fruits  of  his  love, 
and  receiving  my  share  among  the  redeemed  of 
the  Lord. 


after  receiving  at  the  Lord's  Supper.        101 

II.  I  bless  thee,  my  God,  for  the  mercies  of  a 
Saviour;  without  which  all  mercies  else  would 
be  unavailable,  and  do  me  no  good.     I  bless 
thee,  that  thou  hast  not  withheld  thy  Son,  thy 
only  Son,  from  us,  but  given  him  to  be  the  pro- 
pitiation for  our  sins,  and  to  be  the  life  and  food 
of  our  souls. 

III.  I  sat  down  under  his  shadow,  and  his  fruit 
was  sweet  to  my  taste.     I  have  been  entertained 
at  the  table  of  the  Lord;  and  there  his  banner 
over  me  was  love.     'Twas  love  that  gave  me  the 
Saviour  whom  I  have  been  receiving;  and  the 
opportunity  now  to  come,  and  rest,  and  feast  my 
soul  upon  him. 

IV.  Return    to   thy  rest,  O  my  soul,  for  the 
Lord  has  dealt  bountifully  with  thee.     Thy  life 
is  given  thee  at  his  hands;  who  forgiveth  all  thy 
sins,  and  healeth  all  thy  diseases;  and  not  only 
redeems  thee  from  destruction,  but  crowns  thee 
with  loving  kindness  and   tender  mercies ;  and 
satisfies  thy  mouth  with  good  things,  and  those 
the  best  of  all  things,  even  his  pardon  and  peace, 
his  Son  and  his  Spirit ;  the  riches  of  his  grace, 
and  the  pledges  of  his  glory. 

V.  Blessed  be  my  God,  for  that  bread  which 
came  down  from  heaven,  to  give  life  unto  the 
world.     And  blessed  be  thy  name,  O  gracious 
Lord,  for  my  share  in  this  highest  expression  of 
thy  wonderful  love  and  bounty. 

VI.  Eternal  thanks  and  praise  be  unto  thee,  O 
blessed   God  my  Saviour,  for  all    thy  glorious 
achievements,  in  laying  the  sure  foundation  for 
our  good  hope,  and  everlasting  consolation. 

VII.  Thou  hast  loved  us,  and  redeemed  us,  and 
washed  us  from  our  sins  in  thy  own  blood.    And 

12 


102  Devout  Ejaculations,  &c. 

O  how  infinitely  indebted  am  I  to  thy  mercy,  that 
thou  callest  me  to  this  sweet  heavenly  entertain- 
ment^ which  cost  thee  so  dear,  to  purchase  arid 
provide  for  us! 

VIII.  O  make  me  more  sensible  of  thy  love,  and 
more  thankful  for  all  its  blessed  effects ;  and  let  me 
now  find  the  happy  fruits  of  strength  arid  refresh- 
ment to  my  soul;  even  strength  against  all  the 
temptations  that  would  pluck  me  from  thee,  and 
engage  me  in  rebellion  against  thee;  and  such  re- 
freshments as  may  take  my  heart  off  from  all  the 
pleasures  of  sin ;  and  make  it  my  meat  and  drink 
to  do  the  will  of  my  heavenly  Father. 

IX.  After  I  have  tasted  the  pleasures  of  my  Fa- 
ther's house,  O  let  me  not  go  to  feed  upon  husks. 
And  let  nothing  wear  off  or  wear  out  the  savour 
that  I  have  had  of  things  heavenly ;  nor  let  a  world 
part  between  me  and  the  blessed  Saviour  of  the 
world. 

X.  Let  me  not  turn  my  back  upon  the  Lord  of 
love,  that  has  been  so  good  and  kind  to  my  soul. 

0  let  me  not  break  with  my  heavenly  Sovereign, 
to  whom  now  again  I  have  vowed  allegiance. 

XI.  Whither  shall  I  go  from  thee,  O  blessed 
Jesus,  who  hast  the  words  and  the  gift  of  eternal 
life?     All  is  in  thy  hands;  and  thou  art  the  best 
of  all  Lords,  who  dost  not  rule  us,  but  to  bless 
us;  and  canst  have  no  ends  upon  us  in  ordering 
of  us,  but  only  to  keep  off  ruin  from  us,  and  to 
secure  the  highest  happiness  to  us. 

XII.  I  will  admire,  and  love,  and  praise  my 
Lord;  I  will  believe  and  trust  in  his  tried  mercy  ; 

1  will  rejoice  and  glory  in  his  great  salvation. 
And    who   shall   pluck   me  out    of  his  hands? 
What  shall  separate  me  out  of  his  love?     My 


For  a  Public  Fast.  103 

beloved  is  mine,  and  I  am  his.  Thine  I  am,  O 
Lord,  and  thine  I  will  be,  while  I  have  my  being. 
XIII.  Yet  Lord  of  all  power  and  love  !  I  be- 
seech thee  keep  thy  servant  from  falling ;  and 
preserve  me  in  every  time  and  case  of  danger. 
O  do  not  suffer  me  to  undo  myself;  but  pity  my 
frailty,  and  relieve  my  infirmity ;  and  in  thy 
hands  let  me  be  safe  and  never  perish,  but  attain 
to  everlasting  life;  through  Jesus  Christ  my 
great  Redeemer  and  only  Saviour.  Amen,  Amen. 

Prayer  and  Humiliation  for  a  Public  Fast-Day. 
f\  LORD  God,  glorious  in  holiness,  and  of 
^^  purer  eyes  than  to  behold  any  iniquity  with- 
out abhorrence  of  it,  and  indignation  against  it ! 
How  shall  man,  sinful  man,  that  drinks  in  iniqui- 
ty like  water,  appear  before  thee  ?  And  how 
shall  we,  vile  and  frail,  polluted  and  depraved 
as  we  are,  show  ourselves  in  the  presence  of 
such  a  great  and  wise,  just  and  holy  God,  as  thou 
art!  When  we  look  upon  thy  perfect  law,  and 
see  what  we  should  be,  what  manner  of  person, 
in  all  holy  conversation  and  godliness ;  and  when 
we  reflect  on  our  own  hearts  and  lives,  and  find 
what  we  are  ;  how  wanting  in  our  duty,  and  how 
contrary  to  that  holy  rule  which  thou  dost  pre- 
scribe to  us,  by  which  to  keep  our  hearts  and  to 
order  our  conversation  ;  we  cannot  come  into  thy 
presence,  O  Lord,  without  confusion  of  face,  and 
anguish  of  soul,  and  remorse  of  conscience,  to 
think  how  foolishly  and  wickedly  we  have  done ; 
and  how  abject  and  wretched  we  have  made 
ourselves;  even  viler  than  the  dust  of  the  earth, 
or  any  thing  that  moves  upon  it. 

Besides  that  we  brought  with  us  a  corrupt  name 


104  For  a  Public  Fast. 

into  the  world,  full  of  strangeness  to  thee  our  God, 
and  full  of  enmity  against  thy  holy,  good  and  right- 
eous laws ;  we  have  mispent  the  most  of  our  time 
here  in  the  neglect  of  thy  work,  and  in  disobedi- 
ence against  thy  word;  daily  multiplying  our 
offences  against  thee,  as  thou  hast  been  pleased 
daily  to  multiply  thy  blessings  and  favours  upon 
us.  O  the  precious  time  that  we  have  lost,  the 
means  that  we  have  neglected,  the  mercies  that 
we  have  abused,  the  calls  and  warnings,  offers  and 
invitations,  that  we  have  disregarded !  How  bold 
have  we  made  with  thy  glorious  Majesty,  and  with 
thy  holy  laws!  What  little  awful  regard  have  we 
had  to  thee  !  What  little  conscientious  fear  of 
offending  thee ! 

O  the  crying  sins  and  abominations,  the  pre- 
vailing wickedness,  and  the  bold  open  impieties, 
[the  sivearing  and  drunkenness,  the  pride  and  unclean- 
ness,  the  cruel  enmity,  and  all  manner  of  injustice,  the 
corrupt  communication,  and  ungodly  conversation] 
whereby  God  is  so  greatly  dishonoured  and  pro- 
voked every  day,  almost  every  where  !  And  O 
how  large  a  share  have  we  had  in  addling  to  the 
public  guilt !  Sinning  as  we  have  done,  in  all 
estates  and  affairs,  in  all  relations  and  circum- 
stances of  our  lives !  And  not  only  through 
weakness  and  surprise,  and  the  violence  of 
temptations;  but  many  times  knowingly,  wilfully 
and  presumptuously ;  with  a  high  hand,  and  stiff 
neck,  against  thee,  our  glorious  Maker,  and 
Judge  eternal :  and  O  how  great  a  weight  have 
we  added  to  all  our  other  sins,  by  the  hardness 
of  our  hearts  and  our  impenitent  continuance  in 
our  sins !  Committing  great  sins  with  little  re- 
morse, little  penitent  concernment  for  all  the  evils 


For  a  Public  Fast.  105 

whereof  we  have  been  guilty  !  Yea,  Lord,  how 
unsuitable  still  are  our  hearts  and  our  lives  for 
those  holy  rules,  which  thy  word  gives  us  in 
charge  to  follow !  So  much  is  there  still  amiss 
with,  and  wanting  in  us,  that  it  is  the  great  abound- 
ing mercy  of  our  Lord,  that  thou  dost  yet  length- 
en out  our  lives,  and  thy  patience  with  us ;  and 
still  leave  us  any  of  these  opportunities,  to  hum- 
ble ourselves  before  thee,  and  to  cry  for  mercy 
to  thee,  in  that  day  of  grace,  which  through  the 
forbearance  of  our  God  is  yet  over  us. 

We  have  not  glorified  thee,  O  Lord,  in  bear- 
ing fruits  of  holiness  answerable  to  thy  revealed 
will,  and  to  thy  obliging  love ;  but  we  desire  to 
give  glory  to  God,  in  confessing  our  sins,  and 
humbling  our  souls,  and  acknowledging  our  de- 
sert of  all  thy  judgments  ;  and  admiring  and  mag- 
nifying the  riches  of  that  grace  and  mercy,  which 
has  spared  us  so  long  a  time,  and  showed  us  such 
marvellous  kindness  still,  notwithstanding  all  the 
high  provocations  of  our  sins.  Lord,  we  have 
heard,  and  blessed  be  thy  name,  we  have  found, 
that  the  King  of  heaven  is  a  merciful  King. 
That  with  thee,  our  God,  there  is  mercy,  that 
thou  mayest  be  feared;  that  our  sins,  though  great 
and  manifold,  may  be  pardoned;  and  that  our 
souls,  though  ruinous,  and  much  endangered,  by 
reason  of  our  sins,  may  be  recovered  and  healed, 
and  eternally  saved:  O  help  us  so  to  accuse,  and 
judge,  and  condemn  ourselves,  that  we  may  not 
be  judged  of  the  Lord,  to  be  condemned  with 
the  world;  and  so  to  lay  our  sins  to  heart,  that 
thou  mayest  never  lay  them  to  our  charge,  but 
upon  the  account  of  thy  Son  our  Saviour;  whom 
thou  hast  given  to  be  the  propitiation  for  our  sins; 


106  For  a  Public  Fast. 

and  in  whom  thou  art  a  God  gracious  and  mer- 
ciful to  poor  sinners;  that  deserve  nothing  at  all 
from  thee,  but  to  be  forsaken  and  abhorred  by 
thee.  For  his  sake,  O  good  God  !  give  us  repent- 
ance and  pardon  for  all  that  is  past,  wherein  we 
have  offended  thee ;  whether  they  be  our  sins  of 
omission  or  commission;  sins  of  weakness  or 
wilfulness;  failings  or  presumptions;  the  sins  of 
ignorance,  or  such  as  we  have  committed  against 
light  and  knowledge;  O  gracious  Lord,  humble 
us  duly  under  the  sense  of  them,  arid  absolve  us 
thoroughly  from  the  guilt  of  them.  O  set  our  sins 
in  order  before  us,  and  make  us  to  know  our 
transgressions,  and  the  evil  of  our  own  hearts; 
and  every  one  of  us  so  to  search  and  try  our 
ways,  that  we  may  turn  to  the  Lord,  and  bring 
forth  fruits  meet  for  repentance ;  and  not  only 
loathe  ourselves  in  our  own  sight,  for  the  evils 
whereof  we  have  been  guilty;  but  also  loathe,  as 
much  as  ever  we  have  loved,  the  things  which 
displease  thy  holy  will,  and  hishonour  thy  bless- 
ed name.  O  that  we  may  forsake  our  sins,  not 
only  in  the  outward  commission,  but  in  the  in- 
ward affection ;  not  reserving  to  ourselves  any 
sin  or  lust  to  be  spared,  nor  any  way  of  wicked- 
ness, wherein  we  would  be  allowed ;  but  keep- 
ing at  that  distance  which  thy  holy  word  teaches 
us  to  keep,  from  every  evil  and  accursed  thing, 
that  is  abomination  in  thy  sight,  arid  destructive 
to  our  souls ;  arid  cleansing  ourselves  from  all 
filthiness  of  flesh  and  spirit,  endeavouring  toper- 
feet  holiness  in  the  fear  of  God. 

We  have  been  accessary  to  the  accumulated 
heinous  guilt  that  endangers  us  all,  and  calls  for 
judgments  on  the  land.  O  that  we  may  be  as 


For  a  Public  Fast.  107 

forward  to  contribute  our  help,  by  the  humiliation 
of  our  souls,  and  the  reformation  of  our  lives,  to 
save  our  nation;  and  to  turn  away  the  anger  gone 
out  against  us,  that  we  perish  not.  Save  us,  O 
Lord,  from  our  sins,  which  are  the  enemies  of  our 
own  house;  more  mischievous  to  us  than  any 
other  evils  or  enemies  abroad.  O  pour  out  a 
spirit  ofserious  repentance  and  reformation  upon 
the  whole  nation;  to  heal  the  distempers  of  our 
souls,  to  curb  the  disorders  of  our  lives,  and  to 
recover  the  decayed  power  of  godliness  in  the 
land ;  and  so  prepare  and  dispose  us  not  only  for 
thy  temporal  mercies,  but  for  the  mercy  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ  to  eternal  life.  Help  us  so  to 
turn  from  the  evil  of  our  ways,  that  thou  mayest 
turn  from  the  fierceness  of  thy  wrath,  and  cause 
thy  anger  towards  us  to  cease.  O  that  we  may 
fear  the  rod,  and  who  has  appointed  it !  And  so 
prepare  to  meet  thee,  our  God,  in  the  way  of 
thy  judgments,  that  the  God  of  peace  may  think 
thoughts  of  peace  to  us,  and  not  of  evil;  and  to 
give  us  an  expected  end,  arid  the  desired  issue, 
of  all  our  fears  and  dangers. 

Thou  canst  show  us  great  and  mighty  things, 
which  we  know  not,  and  exceed  all  our  expect- 
ations, as  well  as  our  deservings,  by  thy  bounti- 
ful favours :  and  though  thou  mightest  make  us 
know  the  worth  of  slighted  mercies,  by  their  want, 
and  deprive  us  of  all  the  good,  which  we  have 
so  little  improved,  and  so  greatly  abused;  yet  O 
how  many  promises  of  thy  word,  and  what  frequent 
experience,  which  we  have  had  of  thy  mercy,  in 
time  of  our  need,  do  encourage  us  still  with  hope 
to  look  unto  thee,  our  God,  and  to  wait  for  the 
salvation  of  the  Lord  !  O  how  long,  in  all  our  pro 


108  For  a  Public  Fast. 

vocations,  hast  thou  spared  us !  And  how  often, 
in  our  distresses,  sent  wonderful  redemption  to 
us  !  And  to  thee,  who  hast  helped  and  delivered, 
in  time  past,  do  we  look  still  for  help  and  deliver- 
ance. O  our  God,  be  thou  pleased  to  take  the 
motive  now  from  thy  own  mercy,  that  has  so  far 
been  pleased  to  interest  thy  glory  in  our  safety; 
and  go  on  to  help  and  deliver  us,  for  the  glory  of 
that  mercy  which  first  made  us  thy  people,  and 
still  has  owned  us  for  thy  peculiar  care.  O  do 
not  abhor  us,  nor  forsake  us  for  thy  name's  sake ; 
but  be  jealous  for  thy  land,  and  pity  thy  people. 
Turn  us  again,  O  Lord  God  of  hosts,  and  cause 
thy  face  to  shine,  and  we  shall  be  saved. 

Either  in  mercy  turn  away  the  evils  from  us; 
or  prepare  us  for  them,  and  support  us  under 
them,  arid  bring  us  happily  out  of  them  ;  that  we 
may  not  sink  and  perish  in  them,  but  find  spiri- 
tual good,  by  temporal  evils;  and  find  the  light 
momentary  afflictions  to  wrork  for  us  a  far  more 
exceeding  and  eternal  weight  of  glory;  and  all 
things  concurring  to  promote  our  grace  and  our 
peace  with  God,  through  Jesus  Christ.  And 
though  thou  shouldst  feed  us  with  bread  of  ad- 
versity, and  water  of  affliction,  yet  let  not  our 
teachers  be  removed  into  corners ;  nor  bring  us 
under  a  famine  of  the  word  of  the  Lord;  nor 
give  us  over  to  the  formality  of  a  lifeless  profes- 
sion ;  under  all  the  means  of  grace,  to  send  lean- 
ness into  our  soul.  Though  thou  permit  the 
floods  and  storms  to  arise  and  increase,  yet  for- 
tify us  so  by  thy  grace,  that  we  may  not  be 
moved  by  any  of  those  afflictions,  so  as  to  turn 
the  blessed  advantage  of  suffering  for  thee  into 
an  occasion  of  falling  from  thee. 


For  the  Fast-Day  Evening  109 

Seeing  the  truth  itself  will  not  make  us  free  if 
we  are  not  true  to  it ;  and  the  purest  religion 
cannot  be  our  defence;  when  we  continue  still 
so  had,  as  to  shroud  the  worst  conversation,  un- 
der the  best  profession.  O  help  us,  Lord,  to  rid 
our  hands  and  our  hearts  nf  all  the  accursed 
things  that  provoke  thy  wrath  and  indignation 
against  us.  And  let  us  wisely  consider  of  thy 
doings,  and  know  the  time  of  our  visitation,  and 
hearken  to  the  calls,  and  take  the  warnings,  and 
improve  the  means  and  mercies  vouchsafed  to  us, 
while  we  have  them;  arid  follow  the  conduct  of 
thy  good  providence,  and  comply  with  all  thy  gra- 
cious methods  used,  to  reclaim  us  from  our  sins, 
and  to  reform  our  lives,  and  save  our  souls;  that 
all  may  not  be  in  vain  to  us,  but  at  least  effect 
the  purpose  of  thy  saving  mercy  upon  us ;  to  de- 
liver us  from  the  evils  to  come,  and  to  set  us 
safe  into  the  hands  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed 
Lord  and  Saviour.  Amen. 


Confession  and  Prayer  for  the  Evening  of  a  Public 
Fast-Day. 

OLORD  most  high  and  holy,  the  God  of  all 
power  and  glory,  against  whom  we  have 
greatly  sinned,  and  who  by  our  sins  hast  been 
highly  provoked;  we  are  under  a  necessity  still 
to  come  and  appear  before  thee;  and  we  dare 
not  keep  away  from  thee.  But  O  with  what 
confidence  can  we  look  up  to  the  Majesty  of  hea- 
ven, whom  we  have  so  ill  used,  and  so  much  of- 
fended ! 

Well  may  we  be  abashed  arid  struck  down, 
to  bethink  ourselves  of  all  the  evil  that  we  have 
done,  and  all  the  sins  of  heart  and  life  which  still 

K 


110  For  the  Fast-Day  Evening. 

we  are  in ;  when  we  remember,  O  Lord,  and 
consider  thy  perfect  understanding  of  every  par- 
ticular, thy  holiness  to  hate,  thy  justice  to  re- 
quite, and  thy  power  to  punish  every  wicked 
thing. 

We  fall  down,  and  humble  ourselves  here  at 
thy  feet,  blessed  glorious  God,  confessing  the 
grievous  guilt  of  all  our  sins,  and  our  due  de- 
sert of  thy  heavy  judgments.  For  we  cannot 
but  own  ourselves  to  be  some  of  those  degene- 
rate children  whom  thou  hast  nourished  and 
brougth  up,  that  have  rebelled  against  thee. 
Yea,  have  made  the  bolder  to  offend  thee,  the 
better  thou  hast  dealt  by  us. 

Holy  Father !  we  are  filled  with  confusion,  to 
think  what  little  proportion  our  lives  do  bear  to 
our  names;  how  unsuitable  to  our  profession  has 
been  our  conversation ;  and  how  inconsistent  we 
have  been  with  ourselves;  when  we  are  called 
the  children  of  God,  the  members  of  his  Christ, 
and  the  heirs  of  his  glory;  and  call  the  gospel 
our  rule,  arid  profess  to  believe  all  the  great 
eternal  things  which  it  contains;  and  yet  carry,  as 
if  we  did  not  know  or  mind  the  privileges  that 
we  have,  nor  the  relation  and  obligations  in 
which  we  stand. 

Yea,  this  may  not  only  fill  our  faces  with  shame, 
but  our  hearts  with  dread;  lest  our  very  profes- 
sion of  thy  holy  religion  should  rise  up  in  the 
judgment  against  us,  to  aggravate  our  condemn- 
ation upon  us;  because  we  would  so  sin  against 
oui  own  belief  and  knowledge,  to  pull  down  the 
more  heavy  intolerable  doom  upon  our  own 
hentls. 

We  have  been  vain  arid  earnal,  proud  and  un- 


For  the  Fast-Day  Evening.  Ill 

thankful  in  our  health  and  prosperous  state;  and 
sullen  and  forward,  murmuring  and  desponding  in 
our  low  afflicted  condition.  The  kindness  and 
the  mercy  that  should  have  allured  us  unto  thee, 
and  encouraged  us  the  more  faithfully  and  cheer- 
fully to  serve  thee,  has  made  us  but  forgetful  of 
thee,  and  to  wax  wanton  against  thee.  And  the 
correction  and  trouble  that  should  have  driven 
us  out  of  our  sins,  and  hastened  us  to  flee  for  the 
life  of  our  souls,  has  but  put  us  out  of  patience, 
and  filled  us  with  prejudice  against  thy  righte- 
ous hand,  and  with  hard  and  unworthy  thoughts 
of  our  God.  And  so,  we  have  made  shift  still  to 
keep  the  hold  of  our  sins,  notwithstanding  all  thy 
various  methods  to  break  us  of  them. 

Yea,  to  thee,O  Lord,  who  searchest  the  hearts, 
and  triest  the  reins,  we  must  acknowledge  and 
bewail  the  sins  of  our  hearts  and  minds  ;  our  vain 
thoughts,  and  proud  imaginations,  our  lustful  arid 
covetous  desires,  our  envious  and  malicious  pro- 
jects ;  for  these  corrupt  the  fountain,  and  defile 
the  habitation  of  thy  blessed  Spirit.  These  are 
the  seeds  and  roots  of  all  the  other  evils  in  our 
lives  ;  and  render  us  even  as  criminal  in  thy 
sight,  as  if  we  had  outwardly  acted  what  we 
have  so  inwardly  devised.  Such  vile  inclina- 
tions and  profaneness  to  evil,  approving  of  it  and 
delighting  in  it,  and  consenting  to  it,  carries  so 
much  guilt  and  malignity  along  with  it,  that  even 
for  this,  thou  mightest  justly  abhor  us  and  con- 
demn us,  in  that  day  when  God  shall  judge  the 
secrets  of  men,  by  Jesus  Christ. 

Thus  we  must  criminate  and  arraign  our- 
selves; confessing  that  iniquities  prevail  against 
us,  temptations  are  still  pressing  upon  us;  and 


1 1.2  For  the  Fast-Day  Evening. 

our  sins,  O  bow  often  do  they  get  the  ascendant 
over  us  !  Still  we  are  offending  our  holy  Lord; 
and  still  we  are  carrying  in  us  the  corrupt  na- 
ture, the  carnal  mind,  the  opposition  to  thy  righ- 
teous law,  and  an  enmity  against  God,  which 
threatens  us  with  thy  wrath  and  ruiri. 

We  read  of  such  as  cannot  cease  from  sin; 
and  su.ch,  O  Lord,  thou  knowest  us  in  a  great 
measure  to  be;  that  have  brought  ourselves 
under  the  sad  necessity  of  sinning  against  thee ; 
and  so  entangled  our  guilty  souls  in  the  tempter's 
snare,  as  to  be  taken  captive  by  him,  even  at  his 
will. 

We  call  to  mind,  with  shame  and  remorse, 
how  we  have  provoked  the  eyes  of  thy  jealousy, 
and  affronted  thy  glorious  Majesty ;  how  fre- 
quently we  have  so  sinned,  and  how  heinously 
offended. 

But  after  all  this,  so  much  amiss  that  we  have 
done,  and  when  we  cannot  but  thus  acknowledge 
what  great  and  provoking  sinners  we  have  been, 
yet  O  what  sorry  works  have  we  made  of  our  re- 
pentance for  our  sins;  O  how  little  havie  we  done 
at  it,  but  triple  with  it !  Even  when  we  talk  of 
humiliation,  and  pretend  to  it,  and  argue  for 
it,  O  Lord  thou  knowest  how  seldom  we  have 
engaged  in  it,  and  how  superficially  we  have  gone 
over  it,  in  the  proper  seasons  for  it;  how  hard 
and  unrelenting  have  been  our  hearts!  and  how 
loath  and  backward  to  the  most  needful  work! 

O  good  God !  wilt  thou  humble  us,  that  we 
have  been  no  more  humbled ;  and  lay  not  to  our 
charge  the  sins  of  those  services  which  we  have 
so  ill  performed.  And  seeing  unrepented  sins 
are  the  cause  of  thy  dreadful  judgments,  O  that 


For  the  Fast-Day  Evening.  113 

the  dread  of  thy  judgments  may  drive  us  out  of 
all  such  sins!  And  when  the  wrath  of  God  is 
revealed  from  heaven  against  them,  O  let  us  not 
dare  to  continue  in  them.  When  the  axe  is  laid 
to  the  root  of  the  tree,  and  thy  hand  is  lifted  up, 
as  ready  to  do  execution  upon  us,  O  that  we 
may  be  so  warned  and  reclaimed,  and  bring 
forth  such  fruits  meet  for  repentance,  that  we 
may  not  be  hewn  down  and  cast  into  the  fire, 
nor  die  or  perish  in  our  sins !  but  may  find  a  way 
of  escape,  and  mercy  from  the  Lord,  and  grace 
to  help  in  all  times  of  our  need. 

And  the  Lord  in  mercy  pity  our  frailties  and 
infirmities,  and  forgive  us  all  our  sinful  neglects 
and  iniquities.  And  for  what  is  still  wanting  in 
us,  O  be  thou  graciously  pleased  to  accept  the 
full  and  perfect  merits  arid  righteousness  of  thy 
dear  Son,  our  most  holy  Saviour;  and  let  his 
precious  blood  be  heard  speaking  for  us  ;  where 
we  have  nothing  to  say  for  ourselves;  and  where 
we  are  so  unworthy  to  be  heard  on  our  own  ac- 
count. 

Be  merciful,  O  God,  to  this  sinful  nation,  that 
has  so  long  enjoyed,  and  so  much  abused  thy 
rich  and  sundry  blessings,  and  still  goes  on  to 
provoke  thee  daily.  O  forgive  the  many  crying 
sins,  for  which  thou  mightest  justly  abhor  us,  ana 
reject  us,  and  lay  us  desolate,  and  so  forsake  us 
utterly,  as  to  be  favourable  to  us  no  more.  Yet 
grant  us  thy  grace  we  beseech  thee,  so  to  repent 
and  amend,  that  we  may  be  spared  and  saved 
from  all  the  judgments  which  we  have  so  much 
deserved. 

O  that  thy  warnings  and  threatening,  and 
chastenings,  may  not  leave  us  still  an  unrelenting 
K* 


114  In  Time  of  War. 

incorrigible  people,  nor  pass  over  us,  without 
working  an  humble  submission  and  unfeigned  re- 
pentance upon  us !  O  that  we  may  find  the 
blessed  reconciliation  with  our  God,  in  hum- 
bling ourselves  before  thee,  returning  unto  thee, 
and  bringing  forth  such  fruits  of  new  and  better 
obedience,  as,  in  the  Lord  our  righteousness, 
shall  be  favourably  accepted  by  thee;  that  we 
may  not  sink  under  our  fears,  nor  be  ruined  by 
our  sins,  but  plucked  as  a  brand  out  of  the  fire; 
to  survive  our  dread  and  danger,  and  to  see  the 
good  of  thy  chosen,  and  rejoice  in  the  gladness 
of  thy  nation,  and  glory  with  thy  inheritance. 

And  for  all  the  mercy  which  in  judgment  thou 
hast  still  remembered  towards  us;  and  for  all 
thy  wonderful  patience  with  us,  and  long-suffer- 
ing of  us;  and  that  continued  matter  and  occa- 
sion of  thankfulness,  which  we  have  yet  before 
us;  that  we  are  not  all  consumed,  nor  only  spar- 
ed, but  many  ways  still  blest  and  favoured  ;  not 
unto  us,  O  Lord,  riot  unto  us,  but  to  thy  name 
alone,  be  all  the  praise  and  glory  rendered  with 
humble  and  grateful  hearts,  by  us,  and  by  all 
thine  every  where,  now  and  for  evermore.  Jlmen. 

Jin  Addition  in  Time  of  War. 

LORD,  the  great  and  dreadful  God  !  against 
thee  wre  have  so  greatly  sinned  and  carried 
us  such  enemies  to  thy  glory ;  that  thou  mayest 
justly  use  our  enemies,  as  thy  scourge  to  correct 
us,  and  to  make  us  feel  some  of  the  smart  of  our 
sins;  for  which  it  is  meet  that  we  should  patient- 
ly bear  thy  indignation,  even  under  such  thy 
dealings.  But  however  thou  shalt  be  pleased  to 
express  thy  anger  against  us,  O  let  us  not  fall  in- 


In  Time  of  War.  115 

to  their  hands  whose  very  mercies  are  cruel. 
Arise,  O  God,  let  not  man  prevail,  nor  those  that 
hate  us  swallow  us  up :  but  scatter  them  by  thy 
power,  and  bring  them  down,  O  Lord,  our  shield. 
Thou  that  makest  the  wrath  of  man  to  praise 
thee,  O  work  thy  glory  even  out  of  that  which 
looks  so  contrary :  yea,  restrain  the  remainder 
of  their  wrath;  and  put  a  stop  to  the  effusion  of 
blood,  that  wars  may  cease,  and  our  land  have 
rest,  and  thy  people  be  blest  with  peace.  Our 
eyes  are  upon  thec,  our  great  Saviour,  and 
mighty  Deliverer,  to  give  us  help  from  trouble, 
because  vain  else  is  all  the  help  of  man.  In 
times  of  danger,  O  be  thou  our  shield  and  buck- 
ler :  and  when  our  sins  lay  us  open  to  the  malice  of 
enemies,  gracious  God,  be  thou  our  hiding-place, 
to  preserve  us  from  the  feared  evils  and  deserved 
judgments.  O  for  thy  truth's  sake,  for  thy  church's 
sake,  for  thy  beloved  Son,  our  blessed  Saviour's 
sake,  spare  us,  good  Lord,  and  give  us  not  up  a 
reproach  to  the  enemies  of  our  holy  religion ;  nor 
let  them  ever  have  cause  to  rejoice  in  our  ruin. 
O  go  forth  with  our  armies,  thou  Almighty 
Lord  of  hosts,  and  bless  and  prosper  all,  both  our 
land  and  naval  forces.  And  that  we  may  not  be 
in  rebellion  against  heaven,  w^hile  others  are 
warring  against  us,  O  save  us  from  our  provoking 
sins,  and  direct  our  ways  to  please  the  Lord; 
and  help  us  so  to  make  our  peace  with  our  God, 
that  thou  mayest  make  even  our  enemies  to  be 
at  peace  with  us.  O  purge  the  camp  of  every 
careful  thing,  which  enfeebles  their  strength,  and 
defeats  their  attempts,  that  they  cannot  stand 
before  their  enemies.  And  turn  them  from  all 
the  provocations  which  weaken  our  hopes  by 


116  In  Time  of  Infection. 

j      j 

receiving  good  by  their  hands.  Cover  thou  their 
heads  in  the  day  of  battle ;  and  perserve  them  in 
all  the  times  and  cases  of  danger.  O  let  them 
be  as  the  sun  when  hegoeth  forth  in  his  strength; 
and  return  with  safety,  honour,  victory,  and  all 
good  and  happy  success.  O  hear  the  prayers 
and  cries  of  thy  servants  which  stand  in  the  gap, 
interceding  in  the  anguish  of  their  souls  for  these 
poor  sinful  nations,  which  have  so  long  abused 
the  rich  vouchsafements  of  thy  mercy,  that  we 
may  be  spared  and  saved,  and  by  the  kind  hand 
of  Omnipotent  mercy,  plucked  as  a  brand  out  of 
the  fire,  to  survive  our  sins  and  our  fears,  and  to 
see  the  good  of  thy  chosen,  and  to  rejoice  in  the 
gladness  of  thy  nation,  and  glory  with  thy  inherit- 
ance ;  for  all  the  riches  of  thy  grace  and  good- 
ness to  us  in  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

In  Time  of  Infection. 

O  LORD  God,  the  Giver  of  our  health,  which 
is  the  blessing  that  sweetens  all  the  other 
blessings  of  our  lives :  it  is  only  of  thy  mercy 
that  we  have  so  much  health  continued,  after  the 
disorderly  manner  in  which  we  have  lived.  And 
O  how  just  were  it  with  thee,  utterly  to  take 
away  that  health  from  us  which  we  have  so  great- 
ly abused  to  a  forgetfulness  of  thee,  and  wanton- 
ness against  thee !  how  justly  mightest  thou 
smite  us  with  the  most  sharp  and  noisome  dis- 
eases, which  our  nature  most  abhorreth :  to  hur- 
ry us  out  of  the  land  of  the  living,  and  put  a  sor- 
rowful end  to  our  wretched  days!  Our  flesh 
trembles  for  fear  of  thee,  and  we  are  afraid  of 
thy  judgments,  lest  thou  shouldst  strike  into  us 
the  arrows  of  the  Almighty,  for  the  poison  there- 


In  Time  of  Famine.  117 

of  to  drink  up  our  spirits:  lest  thou  shouldst  give 
unto  Death  a  command  to  come  in  at  our  doors 
and  windows,  and  make  havoc  among  us,  and 
sweep  us  away  with  the  besom  of  destruction. 
But  (!)  thou  Hope  of  Israel,  the  Saviour  thereof 
in  time  of  trouble ;  regatrd  not  our  ill  deserts ;  but 
remember  thy  own  tender  mercies,  and  gracious 
promises ;  and  take  pity  on  us,  and  turn  away 
this  plague  from  us.  Put  a  stop  to  the  raging  in- 
fection, and  say  to  the  destroying  angel,  it  is 
enough.  That  we  may  not  be  so  afraid  for  the 
terror  by  night,  nor  for  the  arrow  that  flies  by 
day ;  nor  for  the  pestilence  that  walketh  in  dark- 
ness; nor  for  the  destruction  that  wasteth  at  noon- 
day :  but  with  ease  in  our  minds,  and  gladness 
in  our  hearts,  may  serve  thee  faithfully  and 
cheerfully  all  our  days:  and  devote  our  spared 
lives,  which  we  have  begged  at  thy  hands,  and 
our  health  and  every  mercy,  to  be  laid  out  and 
used  to  thy  honour  and  glory;  through  the 
strength  and  the  righteousness  of  thy  dear  Sonf 
our  most  compassionate  and  prevailing  Medi- 
ator, Jesus  Christ.  Jlmen. 

In  Time  of  Famine. 

LORD  most  High,  the  Creator  of  every  com- 
fort!  thou  hast  long  dealt  out  thy  comforta- 
ble blessings  \vithaplentiful  hand  to  us;  and  we 
have  freely  enjoyed  all  the  abundance  of  thy  good 
things  heaped  upon  us.  But  when  thou  hast  led  us 
to  the  full,  how  have  we  kicked  against  our  bless- 
ed Creator,  and  most  bountiful  Provider:  and 
consumed  the  provisions  for  our  bodies,  to  feed 
the  lusts  that  war  against  our  souls;  and  to 
strengthen  and  embolden  us  in  our  rebellion 


118  In  Time  of  Thunder. 

against  the  Majesty  of  heaven!  most  righteous 
therefore,  we  confess,  would  be  thy  judgments^ 
holy  God,  if  thou  shouldst  stretch  out  upon  us 
the  line  of  confusion,  and  the  stones  of  emptiness, 
and  break  the  staff  of  our  bread;  and  curse  us 
in  all  our  store,  and  in  all  the  endeavours  of  our 
hands,  to  help  ourselves. 

But  O  thou  blessed  Father  of  mercies!  in  mer- 
cy avert  from  us  the  hunger,  and  thirst,  and 
nakedness,  and  want  of  all  things,  which  is  the  due 
desert  of  our  sins,  and  of  our  wicked  abuses  of 
thy  creature-comforts;  that  the  husbandman 
may  not  be  ashamed,  sowing  much  and  gathering 
little :  and  that  the  land  may  not  mourn,  and  all 
the  inhabitants,  with  the  beasts  of  the  field,  and 
the  fowls  of  heaven.  Humble  us,  O  Lord,  for 
all  our  sins;  and  turn  us  from  that  wickedness 
which  turns  our  land  into  barrenness  :  and  then 
again  be  pleased  to  command  a  blessing  upon 
the  blasted  comforts,  and  abundantly  bless  our 
provision,  and  satisfy  our  poor  with  bread;  and 
give  us  fruitful  seasons,  filling  our  hearts  with 
food  and  gladness;  that  we  may  see  thy  hand, 
and  sing  and  praise  thy  power,  and  admire  and 
adore  thy  mercy  and  bounty:  and  in  the  strength 
and  refreshment  of  our  comforts  restored,  joyful- 
ly devote  ourselves  to  thy  holy  service,  all  the 
days  of  our  lives.  Amen. 

Devout  Application  to  the  Lord  in    Time  of  great 

Thunder,  or  some  terrible   Tempest. 
LORD  God,  most  High  and  Almighty!  who 
lookest  upon  the  earth,  and  it  trembles;  and 
touches  the  mountains  and  they  smoke.     How 
wonderful  art  thou  and  terrible  in  all  thy  works 


In-  Time  of  Thunder.  1 1 9 

and  doings  !  to  make  us  fear  and  tremble  before 
thee;  who  hast  all  the  creatures  at  thy  will,  to 
employ  them  when  thou  wilt,  as  the  execution- 
ers of  thy  wrath;  and  even  the  devouring  tire, 
and  stormy  winds,  so  outrageous  in  themselves, 
yet  do  fulfil  thy  word.  In  these  astonishing 
flames,  the  roaring  noises,  and  dreadful  commo- 
tions, thou  showest  the  power  of  thy  hand,  which 
no  creature  is  able  to  resist.  When  the  God  of 
glory  thunders  and  causes  his  voice,  in  an  amaz- 
ing manner,  to  be  heard  from  heaven,  thou 
makest  us  to  know  the  terrors  of  the  Lord,  and 
how  fearful  a  thing  it  is  to  fall  into  the  hands  of 
the  living  God.  The  dangers  that  startle  and 
come  so  nigh  us  thou  mightest  make  them  the 
messengers  of  thy  heavy  judgments  upon  us. 
And  we  must  own  it,  Lord,  to  be  only  of  thy 
mercies  that  we  are  not  consumed,  because  thy 
compassions  fail  not.  O  let  these  thy  compas- 
sions now  be  extended  to  us,  and  showed  upon 
us.  And  in-tender  mercy  cause  the  threatening 
destruction  to  pass  over  us. 

Great  God!  there  is  no  abiding  of  thy  wrath! 
though  \ve  deserve  it,  we  are  not  able  to  stand 
before  it;  but  fall  down,  and  humble  and  submit 
ourselves  to  thy  omnipotent  glorious  Majesty; 
beseeching  thee  to  spare  us,  and  to  save  us  from 
the  mischief  and  ruin  wrhich  thou  mightest  justly 
commission  and  empower  to  destroy  us.  And 
from  the  peril  and  hurt  of  lightning  and  tempest, 
and  sweeping  judgments  arid  sudden  death,  good 
Lord  deliver  us. 

O  despise  not  the  prayers  of  thy  poor  crea- 
tures, crying  to  thee  in  our  distress  "arid  extremi- 
ty; but  now  and  evermore  vouchsafe  to  hear,  O 


1 20  In  Time  of  Thunder. 

Christ;  graciously  hear  us,  O  Christ;  graciously 
hear  us,  O  Lord  Christ,  and  let  us  find  mercy 
from  thee  now,  and  in  that  great  day  of  the  Lord, 
wherein  the  heavens,  being  on  fire,  shall  be  dis- 
solved, and  the  elements  shall  melt  with  fervent 
heat;  and  the  earth,  with  all  its  works,  be  burnt 
up.  O  if  these  sights  and  noises,  and  shakings 
be  so  terrible  to  us  now!  how  unspeakably  as- 
tonishing will  it  be,  when  the  whole  mighty 
frame  of  nature  shall  crack  and  sink,  arid  tumble 
down  !  O  Lord  of  all  mercy  save  us  now  from 
our  sins,  that  would  then  utterly  consume  us 
with  terrors.  For  they  are  our  sins  that  make 
us  afraid  ;  and  fearfulness  surprises  us,  because 
we  have  been  false  in  thy  covenant,  and  rebel- 
lious against  thy  word,  and  provoked  the  Lord 
our  God  to  be  angry  with  us.  O  forgive  us  all 
the  guilt  and  transgression  which  do  fill  us  with 
fearful  expectation  of  thy  wrath  and  fiery  indig- 
nation. And  let  the  all-sufficient  merits  of  our 
Lord  and  Redeemer's  bloody  passion,  that  pas- 
sion which  made  the  earth  to  quake,  and  the 
rocks  to  rend,  atone  for  every  wickedness, 
whereby  we  have  offended  the  holy  Majesty  of 
heaven. 

And  O  that  we  may  not  onJy  be  stunned  and 
struck  down  for  the  present ;  when  thou  dost  so 
dreadfully  discover  thyself  to  us,  and  shake  thy 
rod  over  us;  but  of  thy  mercy,  O  Lord,  wake  us 
out  of  all  carnal  security  and  hardness  of  heart, 
and  forgetfulness  of  our  God,  who  is  a  consuming 
fire.  As  the  thunder-storm,  though  frightful,  use 
to  be  fruitful;  so  may  the  dread  of  thy  judg- 
ments produce  some  good  fruits  of  thy  Spirit  in 
us.  Blessed  God,  let  thy  terrors  soften  our 
hearts,  and  leave  such  deep  and  lasting  impres- 


In  Time  of  any  Calamity.  121 

sions  on  our  minds,  that  we  may  never  disregard 
the  works  of  the  Lord,  nor  the  operation  of  his 
hands;  but  with  all  awfulness  revere  and  adore 
the  Supreme  Eternal  Ruler  of  al!  the  world;  and 
in  thy  holy  fear  keep  back  from  every  evil  pro- 
voking thing;  and  carry  ourselves  towards  the 
Lord  our  Gcd,  in  a  humble,  godly,  circumspect 
manner,  as  long  as  we  have  a  day  to  live;  even 
from  this  time  forth  for  evermore.  Jlmcn. 


In  Time  of  am/  sore  and  grievous  Calamity. 

OMOST  high  and  dreadful  God,  the  supreme 
Commander  of  the  whole  world  !  holy  and 
reverend  is  thy  name  ;  just  and  terrible  are  thy 
judgments;  yet  O  how  unsearchable!  and  thy 
ways  past  our  finding  out !  thy  path  is  in  the  great 
deep ;  and  thy  footsteps  are  not  known.  Clouds 
and  darkness  are  round  about  thee,  yet  righte- 
ousness and  judgment  still  are  the  habitation  of 
thy  throne;  and  thou  canst  never  do  injury  to 
any;  but  art  righteous  in  all  thy  ways,  and  ho- 
ly in  all  thy^vorks.  Who  would  not  stand  inever- 
lasting  awe  of  thy  heavenly  glorious  Majesty,  O 
Lord,  in  whose  hands  we  all  of  us  are,  to  be 
used  as  thou  wilt!  who  canst  touch  and  consume 
us  Sy  thy  own  immediate  stroke,  or  arm  any  of 
thy  creatures  in  heaven  or  iu  earth  against  us  :  or 
make  the  vilest  of  them  the  executioners  of  thy 
just  indignation;  or  turn  the  very  things  where- 
in we  have  been  offended,  into  the  instruments  of 
our  punishment;  yea,  and  plague  us  even  in  our 
comforts;  making  the  choicest  blessings  of  our 
lives  become  the  saddest  of  our  crosses,  and  the 
keenest  of  our  torments;  either  to  take  away  lile 
from  us,  or  make  it  less  desirable  than  death  to 


1 22  Under  perplexed  Jiff  airs. 

We  fall  down  and  kneel  before  the  Lord  our 
Maker,  in  humble  submission  to  thy  correction, 
acknowledging  the  heavy  desert  of  our  sins,  and 
the  perfect  justice  of  thy  judgments.  Humble 
us,  O  good  Lord,  under  thy  hand;  and  forgive  us 
the  heinous  guilt  that  provokes  thee  so  to  stretch 
k  out  against  us.  Thou  that  takest  away  the 
sins  of  the  world,  have  rnercy  upon  us,  and  turn 
us  from  our  sins,  and  deliver  us  from  evil,  and 
turn  away  thy  wrath,  and  all  such  plagues  from 
us.  O  let  thy  boundless  compassion  cover  the 
multitude  of  our  transgressions!  and  remember 
thy  poor  miserable  creatures  in  mercy;  even 
such  mercy  as  may  relieve  and  help  us  in  our 
need  and  distress;  and  save  and  free  us  from 
our  fears  and  dangers,  and  from  our  griefs  and 
pressures;  that  we  may  comfortably  spend  our 
days,  and  glorify  thy  holy  name  for  evermore. 
•Amen. 


Under  any  great  Difficulties  and  arduous  Affairs. 

OLORD,  thou  art  a  God  of  knowledge, 
whose  understanding  is  infinite;  and  thou 
art  never  at  a  loss  to  affect  what  we  would  have : 
though  the  Lord  knows  the  thoughts  of  man,  that 
they  are  vanity:  and  our  wisdom  is  so  often  at  a 
stand,  that  we  know  not  what  to  do  for  our- 
selves; and  at  this  time,  our  affairs  are  so  en- 
tangled, and  such  a  labyrinth  now  involves  us, 
that  we  are  perplexed  in  our  counsels,  and  oven 
the  heads  of  the  wise  are  puzzled,  in  contriving 
how  to  extricate  and  help  us  out.  There  are 
many  devices  in  a  man's  heart,  but  the  counsel 
of  the  Lord,  thatshall  stand.  Yea,  man's  goings 
are  of  the  Lord  ;  how  can  man  then  understanp 
his  own  wayr  His  heart  may  advise  his  way, 


For  Temporal  Bhssings.  123 

but  the  Lord  directs  his  steps.  If'* we  lean  not 
to  our  own  understandings,  but  in  all  our  ways 
acknowledge  thee,  O  Lord;  ihou  hast  promised 
to  direct  our  paths:  and  when  we  commit  our 
way  to  thee,  and  trust  in  thee,  we  have  thy  word 
that  thou  wilt  bring  it  to  pass.  But  thou  hast 
pronounced  wo  to  them  that  take  counsel,  but 
not  of  thee:  that  cover  with  a  covering,  but  not 
of  thy  Spirit,  and  have  not  asked  at  thy  mouth. 
Our  eyes  therefore  are  upon  our  God;  and  to 
thee  we  seek  now  for  wisdom  from  above:  that 
we  may  learn  to  know  the  right,  and  to  choose 
the  best.  For  without  thee,  6  Lord,  our  wisdom 
is  folly,  and  our  debates  are  madness.  O  be 
thou  graciously  present  in  our  councils,  and 
teach  thou  our  senators  wisdom,  that  they  may 
find  out  thetrue  expedients,to  heal  ourbreaches, 
and  redress  our  grievances;  and  to  keep  us  safe, 
and  do  us  good,  and  make  us  holy  and  happy. 
O  may  we  all  be  taught  of  God  which  way  to 
take,  and  how  to  determine  and  act,  consonant 
and  agreeable  to  thy  blessed  will,  and  for  our 
own  peace  and  welfare,  both  here  and  forever. 
Amen. 

Ji    Prayer  for  Temporal  Blessings. 

OLORD  our  God,  thou  knowest  that  while 
we  are  in  this  life,  we  stand  in  need  of  its 
supplies:  and  hath  both  promised  to  such  as  seek 
thy  kingdom,  and  the  righteousness  thereof,  the 
addition  of  all  other  necessaries;  and  also  hast 
commanded  us  to  ask  of  thee  our  daily  bread,  and 
to  cast  our  care  upon  thee  for  all  that  is  fitting 
for  us,  I  pray  therefore  to  thee,  my  heavenly 
Father,  for  such  a  child's  portion  as  thy  wisdom 
sees  to  be  convenient,  and  agreeable  to  my  con- 


124  A  Prayer  for  Rain. 

dition.  O  give  me  such  health  and  wealth,  and 
so  much  of  the  world's  good,  as  shall  be  for  my 
good.  And  while  I  have  a  life  to  be  nourished, 
let  me  not  want  the  supports  and  comforts  of  it. 
Give  me  skill  arid  ability  to  provide  for  myself; 
and  still  add  thy  blessing  to  my  endeavours. 
Where  I  cannot  supply  all  my  own  necessities, 
O  do  thou  raise  up  friends  and  means  to  help 
me,  that  I  may  never  be  destitute  of  what  is  suffi- 
cient to  sustain  me :  arid  be  it  ever  so  poor  and 
mean,  yet  let  me  acquiesce  in  the  distributions 
of  thy  good  providence;  and  having  food  and 
raiment,  be  therewith  content.  In  prosperity, 
keep  me  from  forgetting  thee:  and  in  adversity, 
keep  me  from  concluding  myself  to  be  forgotten 
of  thee:  O  keep  me  from  all  unnecessary  cares, 
and  unprofitable  dejections;  and  teach  me  how 
to  want,  as  well  as  how  to  abound.  Add  to  me, 
O  my  Father,  what  thou  knowest  me  further  to 
need;  and  bless  to  me  what  already  I  have. 
That  the  bodily  comforts  may  not  be  to  my  soul 
occasions  of  falling,  but  encouragements  to  my 
duty,  and  engagements  on  my  heart,  to  abound 
in  thy  love  and  praise,  and  in  the  work  of  the 
Lord.  And  in  the  want  of  all  ether  supplies  and 
succours,  be  thou,  O  God,  my  all  in  all,  in  life  and 
death,  and  evermore.  Jlmcn. 

For  Rain. 

WE  confess,  O  Lord,  that  we  have  so  great- 
ly abused  the  comforts  of  thy  good  crea- 
tures, that  thou  mightest  justly  withdraw  them 
from  us,  and  make  the  heavens  over  us  as  brass,  a nd 
the  rain  of  our  land  dust,  ttnd  the  land  itself  to 
mourn,  and  all  that  grows  upon  it  to  wither.  But 
O  thou  Father  of  mercies,  who  in  judgment  re- 


For  Fair  Weather  125 

memberest  mercy, consult  Lot  now  our  merits,  but 
thy  own  mercies,  how  to  use  us.  Thou  that  hast  the 
bottles  and  treaoures  of  heaven  at  thy  command, 
be  pleased  now  to  open  the  windows  of  heaven, 
and  cause  the  rain  to  come  down  in  its  season; 
making  grass  to  grow  for  the  cattle,  and  herbs  and 
fruits  of  the  earth  for  the  service  of  men.  And  how- 
ever thou  art  pleased  to  deal  with  us,  O  suppress 
all  our  repinings  at  any  of  thy  dealings:  and  let 
them  all  amend  and  better  us:  and  make  us  a 
people  prepared  to  receive  the  mercies  which 
we  want,  and  wait  and  beg  for,  at  thy  gracious 
hands,  upon  the  account  of  Jesus  Christ.  Jlmen. 

For  Fair  Weather. 

LORD,  if  thou  shouldst  turn  a  fruitful  land 
into  barrenness,  for  the  wickedness  of  them 
that  dwell  therein :  yet  righteous  wert  thou,  and 
just  would  be  thy  judgments.;  and  we  must  not 
open  our  mouths  to  reply  against  God ;  but  bear 
the  indignation  of  the  Lord  which  our  sins  have 
so  much  deserved;  when  our  iniquities  have 
turned  away  the  blessings,  and  withholden  the 
good  things  from  us.  But,  O  Father  of  mercies, 
spare  us,  and  forgive  us,  for  thy  own  mercy's 
sake ;  and  put  a  stop  to  the  calamity  that 
threatens  destruction  to  the  works  of  thy  hands; 
that  the  rain  which  is  thy  blessing  may  not  be 
turned  into  a  curse  ;  nor  descend  from  heaven  to 
corrupt  and  spoil  the  fruits  of  the  earth.  O  cause 
the  overflowing  showers  to  cease,  which  damp 
the  joy  of  the  harvest,  and  endanger  the  blasting 
of  our  blessings.  And  as  thou  hast  given  us 
plenty,  and  caused  our  land  to  yield  its  increase, 
so  give  us,  we  pray  thee,  a  seasonable  time  to 
gather  in  the  fruits  which  thy  bounty  has  pro- 
L  2 


126  For  a  Thanksgiving-Day. 

vided  for  us  ;  that  in  the  use  of  them  we  may  joy- 
fully and  cheerfuJly  serve  thee;  and  not  consume 
them  upon  our  lusts,  but  live  to  thy  glory,  as  \ve 
do  upon  thy  bounty.  And  when  thy  judgments 
are  in  the  land.  O  that  we,  who  inhabit  it,  may 
learn  righteousness!  nor  let  our  concernments  be 
so  great  for  our  bodies  as  for  our  souls;  that 
however  we  fare  here,  it  may  go  well  with  us 
forever.  O  let  us  not  labour  so  for  the  meat 
that  perisheth  as  for  that  which  endures  to  ever- 
lasting life;  which  everlasting  provision  for  our 
unchangeable  condition,  above  all  we  beg  at  thy 
hands,  O  Lord  God  our  heavenly  Father,  for  the 
sake  of  Jesus  Christ  our  only  Saviour.  Amen. 

Prayer  and  Praise  for  a  Public  Thanksgiving-Day. 

BLESSED  Lord,  the  only  living  and  true 
God,  who  art  of  thyself,  and  givest  being 
and  preservation  to  us,  and  to  all  things  else  that 
are  in  the  world  !  we  live  by  thee;  our  whole  de- 
pendence is  upon  thee,  for  all  the  good  that  ever 
we  have  or  hope  for.  And  above  all  thy  mercies, 
have  we  cause  to  admire  and  bless,  and  praise 
thee  our  God,  for  those  mercies,  which  in  so 
large  a  measure,  and  especial  manner,  thou  hast 
been  pleased  still  to  vouchsafe  unto  us,  who  are 
the  work  of  thy  hands,  and  the  purchase  of  the 
blood  of  thy  Son  ;  whom  thou  hast  made  and  re- 
deemed to  show  forth  thy  praise,  and  to  glorify 
thy  name.  Arid  we  desire  tc  pay  unto  thee  that 
tribute  of  homage,  and  service,  and  prayer,  and 
praise, 'which  thou  hast  made  us  cppable  of,  and 
so  many  ways  obliged  us  to;  we  desire  to  per- 
form the  same  in  such  a  manner,  that  thou 
mayest  mercifully  accept  us,  at  the  hands  of 
Jesus  Christ. 


For  a  Tlianksgiving-Day.  127 

Worthy  art  thou,  O  Lord  our  God,  to  receive 
all  honour  and  glory,  all  thanks  and  praise,  and 
love  and  obedience;  as  in  the  courts  of  heaven, 
bo  in  all  the  assemblies  of  thy  servants  here  up- 
on earth ;  for  thou  art  great  and  dost  wondrous 
things;  thou  art  God  alone;  and  thy  goodness  is 
equal  to  thy  greatness.  Thy  mercy  is  over  all 
thy  works,  and  endureth  for  ever.  Thou,  Lord, 
hast  been  favourable  to  thy  land,  and  dealt  ex- 
ceeding graciously  with  us  ;  for  which  we  desire 
to  bless  thy  name,  and  to  give  thee  all  the  glory. 
For  it  is  of  the  Lord's  mercies  we  are  not  con- 
sumed, because  thy  compassions  fail  not ;  and  that 
we  are  here  alive  to  praise  thee,  and  in  any  con- 
dition to  keep  a  thanksgiving-day.  That  we  are 
not  now  nothing,  or  worse  than  nothing,  we  must 
acknowledge  it  to  be  of  thy  free  grace,  O  Lord, 
and  thy  mere  mercy.  That  all  the  evils  which 
have  threatened  us,  have  not  befallen  us;  and 
that  those  evils  which  have  come  upon  us,  have 
not  utterly  destroyed  and  undone  us ;  it  is  be- 
cause thou  Lord,  art  gracious  and  merciful,  and 
patient  and  kind,  and  still  doing  good  to  poor 
sinful  men,  who  deserve  nothing  but  evil  at  thy 
hands. 

O  how  much  have  we  to  say  of  the  goodness 
of  the  Lord  by  our  own  experience,  and  thy  help 
at  hand  still  in  all  the  times  and  cases  of  our 
need  !  how  sweet  and  wonderful  is  it  to  recount 
all  the  instances  of  thy  patience  with  us,  and  thy 
bounty  to  us  !  how  from  time  to  time  thou  hast 
signalized  us  with  thy  mercy,  and  made  us 
remarkable  for  thy  blessings  and  favours,  most 
kind  and  precious, of  many  sorts!  thou  hast  cast 
our  lot  in  a  land  of  light,  where  we  live  under 
the  influences  of  thy  gospel;  and  thereby  are 


128  For  a  Thanksgiving-Day. 

called  to  obtain  the  glory  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ.  And  for  all  the  happy  advantages  and 
good  things  of  this  life  which  thou  hast  given  us 
plenteously  to  enjoy,  thou  hast  made  us  the  envy 
of  our  neighbours,  and  the  particular  objects  of 
thy  kindness.  Though  many  times  we  have  pro- 
voked thee  to  stretch  forth  thy  hand,  and  to  shake 
thy  rod  over  us,  and  threaten  to  destroy  us,  yet 
in  judgment  still  thou  hast  remembered  mercy 
towards  us;  and  after  the  clouds  and  darkness 
gathered  about  us,  the  dread  and  distress  were  on 
every  side  of  us,  thou  hast  caused  the  heavens 
again  to  clear  up,  and  smile  upon  us;  and  return- 
ed with  the  visitations  of  thy  love,  and  the  joy  of 
thy  salvation. 

In  the  late  dangers,  thou  hast  been  to  us  a  tow- 
er of  defence;  and  in  the  time  of  our  need,  and 
perplexity,  thou  hast  showed  thyself  graciously 
and  powerful  on  our  behalf.  Thou  hast  helped 
us  for  the  glory  of  thy  name,  and  redeemed  us  for 
thy  mercy's  sake;  not  because  we  were  worthy,  but 
because  thou  hast  a  favour  unto  us!  and  therefore 
to  thy  name  alone  be  all  the  praise.  O  what  shall 
we  render  to  the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits !  what 
can  we  give  to  thee  our  God,  but  the  glory  of  thy 
own  gifts  and  goodness  unto  us !  O  let  not  our 
hearts  be  shut  and  straitened  towards  thee, 
whose  hand  has  been  so  wide  open  unto  us.  But 
do  thou  possess  and  enlarge  these  hearts  of  ours, 
with  more  and  greater  love  and  thankfulness  to 
the  gracious  Giver  of  all  our  good  things.  And 
make  us  more  sensible  of  thy  goodness  and  love 
bestowed  upon  us,  that  we  may  give  thee  thanks 
from  the  ground  of  the  heart,  and  have  our 
mouths  filled  as  with  marrow  and  fatness,  when 
we  praise  our  God  with  joyful  lips. 


Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings.     129 

O  make  us  a  truly  thankful,  as  we  are  a  great- 
ly obliged  people.  And  let  us  not  only  mention 
the  loving  kindness  of  the  Lord,  but  glorify  thy 
name  in  bearing  much  fruit ;  more  answerable  to 
such  mercy  and  encouragement  as  we  have  re- 
ceived from  above.  We  can  never  enough  ad- 
mire and  magnify  the  riches  of  thy  grace,  and  the 
multitude  of  thy  mercies  :  but  O  good  Lord,  en- 
able us  still  more  to  love  thee,  and  better  to 
serve  thee;  and  in  so  doing  for  us,  thou  wilt  still 
further  oblige  us :  because  in  loving  and  serv- 
ing thee,  we  do  best  love  and  serve  our  own 
happiest  interests.  As  our  minds  cannot  but 
muse,  and  our  tongues  speak  of  thy  works;  so 
let  our  lives  be  led  to  thy  praise,  that  thou  the 
great  arid  good  God,  mayest  in  all  things  be  glo- 
rified by  us,  through  Jesus  Christ,  Amen* 

Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings. 

GRACIOUS  God,  the  bountiful  Provider  for 
all  the  world's  family  !  the  eyes  of  all  wait 
upon  thee;  and  thou  givest  them  their  meat  in 
due  season.  Thou  openest  thy  hand  and  satis- 
fiest  the  desire  of  every  living  thing.  Every  year 
thou  renewest  the  face,  and  the  fruits  of  the 
earth,  and  givest  rain  from  heaven,  and  fruitful 
seasons;  to  fill  the  hungry  with  good  things,  and 
to  fill  all  our  hearts  with  food  arid  gladness.  O 
how  many  of  thy  creatures  have  bestowed  their 
labours,  and  lost  their  lives,  and  been  consumed 
to  clothe  and  feed,  and  sustain  and  pleasure  us ! 
O  at  what  vast  expense  art  thou  continually  to 
maintain  the  whole  world  of  creatures,  that  every 
where  hang  upon  thee,  for  life  and  breath,  and 
all  things!  Yet  thou  art  not  weary  to  do  us 
good ;  but  still  showerest  down  blessings  plenti- 


130     Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings. 

fully  upon  us;  to  provide,  not  only  necessaries, 
to  keep  us  alive;  but  also  variety  of  comforts, 
to  make  our  lives  sweet  and  desirable.  Yea, 
thou  delightest  in  mercy,  and  hast  pleasure  in 
the  prosperity  of  thy  servants;  and  makest  us  now 
to  find,  by  our  happy  experience,  how  abun- 
dantly good  arid  kind  thou  art. 

For  Rain. 

O  Lord,  thou  hast  sent  a  gracious  rain  upon 
thy  inheritance,  to  refresh  the  dry  and  thirsty 
land,  and  cause  it  to  yield  its  increase :  giving 
us  the  joyful  opportunity  to  serve  and  praise  thee 
in  the  abundance  of  the  provisions  which  thou 
art  pleased  so  to  make  for  us.  O  that  men  would 
praise  thee  for  thy  goodness,  and  for  such  thy 
wonderful  works  to  the  children  of  men!  O 
good  God,  to  thy  name  only  be  all  the  glory, 
now  and  eternally. 

For  Fair    Weather. 

Lord,  thou  hast  in  mercy  shut  the  windows  of 
heaven,  and  put  a  stop  to  the  overflowing  show- 
ers that  threatened  to  drown  the  fruits  of  the 
earth:  and  hast  caused  this  sweet  and  comfort- 
able change  to  refresh  thy  unworthy  servants, 
and  to  make  all  the  creatures  rejoice  in  thy  good- 
ness. Blessed  be  our  God,  that  deals  so  gra- 
ciously with  us:  and  glory  be  to  thy  name,  thou 
great  Withholder  of  all  the  evils,  and  Giver  of 
all  good.  Let  the  people  praise  thee,  O  God,  let 
all  the  people  praise  thee.  Then  shall  the  earth 
yield  her  increase;  and  God,  even  our  own  God, 
shall  bless  us. 


Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings.     131 

For  the  Cessation  of  Infection. 
O  thou  great  Preserver  of  men  !  thou  hast  de- 
livered our  souls  from  the  hand  of  the  grave,  and 
kept  us  alive,  that  we  should  not  go  down  to  the 
pit;  the  jaws  of  death  were  open  upon  us,  and 
we  went  with  our  lives  in  our  hands:  our  hearts 
failing  us  for  fear  of  the  destruction  raging 
amongst  us,  when  the  very  air,  which  we  drew 
in  to  give  us  life,  was  to  so  many  the  sad  mes- 
senger of  death ;  and  when  thousands  fell  on  eve- 
ry side  of  us,  it  has  not  come  nigh  us.  But  we 
have  dwelt  in  the  secret  places  of  the  Most 
High,  and,  under  the  shadow  of  the  Almighty, 
have  been  kept  in  safety.  O  what  shall  we  say, 
what  shall  we  give  unto  thee,  our  present  Help 
and  only  Saviour,  in  time  of  trouble!  we  are 
every  way  thine,  O  Lord  ;  and  to  thee  only  be  all 
the  glory.  We  bless  thee,  our  God,  as  those 
that  are  made  alive  from  the  dead.  And  O  that 
the  lives  which  Jiave  been  given  us  at  our  re- 
quests, we  may  return  them  back  to  be  spent 
in  thy  service;  that  we  may  love,  and  please, 
and  praise  our  God,  while  we  have  our  being. 

For  the  Restoration  of  Plenty. 

OGOD,  the  Fountain  of  all  goodness!  thou 
didst  threaten  with  famine  to  destroy  the 
blessings  of  the  earth,  which  we  have  so  wickedly 
abused;  but  remembering  thy  own  tender  mercies, 
and  not  our  ill  deserts,  hast  raised  a  new  and 
plentiful  supply  for  us.  And  now  thou  crownest 
the  year  with  thy  goodness,  and  thy  paths  drop 
fatness.  Thou  hast  loaded  the  earth  with  the 
fruits  of  thy  bounty,  and  sent  abundance  of  all 
good  things  for  the  service  and  comfort  of  man. 


132      Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings. 

O  make  us  more  sensible  of  the  obligation  which 
thy  love  has  laid  upon  us.  And  as  thou  tillest  us 
with  thy  good  things,  so  fill  our  hearts  with  thy 
love  and  grace  to  use  every  gift  aright  to  thy 
glory:  that  in  the  use  and  strength  of  what  we 
are  continually  receiving  from  thee,  we  may  de- 
vote ourselves  to  live  unto  thee,  and  to  serve 
thee  with  gladness  and  rejoicing  for  all  thy  rich 
mercy  to  us  in  Jesus  Christ. 

For  Victory  over  our  Enemies. 

O  ALMIGHTY  Lord,  the  most  High  God, 
who  rulest  in  the  kingdoms  of  men,  arid  dost 
whatsoever  thou  pleasest  in  heaven  and  in  earth ! 
in  thy  hand  is  power  and  might,  so  that  none  is 
able  to  withstand  thee.  It  is  thou  that  givest  salva- 
tion unto  kings,  that  deliverestthy  servants  from 
the  hurtful  sword.  Thou  hast  saved  us  from  our 
enemies,  and  put  them  to  shame  that  hated  us. 
It  was  not  by  our  own  power  or  conduct  that  we 
have  been  so  prosperous;  nor  did  our  own  sword 
or  arm  save  us;  but  thy  right  hand,  and  thy  arm, 
and  the  light  of  thy  countenance,  because  thou 
hast  a  favour  unto  us.  Thine,  O  Lord,  is  the 
greatness,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  and  the 
victory.  The  Lord  is  our  strength,  and  our  song, 
and  is  become  our  salvation.  Now,  therefore, 
our  God,  we  thank  thee  and  praise  thy  glorious 
name.  And  O  what  cause  hast  thou  given  us  to 
rejoice  in  thy  goodness,  that  thou  hast  not  given 
our  enemies  cause  to  rejoice  in  our  ruin!  Great 
is  thy  mercy,  O  blessed  Lord,  and  to  thee  alone 
be  the  whole  praise  and  glory.  O  make  us  more 
sensible  of  this  thy  help  at  hand,  in  time  of  our 
need  ;  and  give  us  grace  still  to  keep  the  me- 
mory of  it  in  our  grateful  minds.  O  thou  great 


Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings     133 

Lord  of  Hosts,  \vho  gives!  such  safety  and  good 
success,  wilt  thou  teach  us  also  rightly  to  use 
thy  sweet  and  marvellous  kindness  and  love;  that 
being  delivered  from  the  hands  of  our  enemies, 
we  may  serve  thee,  in  holiness  and  righteousness 
before  thee,  all  the  days  of  our  lives;  and  not 
fly  out  into  licentious  carriage,  as  if  we  were  de» 
livered  to  commit  abominations;  so  throwing 
ourselves  into  the  hands  of  our  spiritual  foes, 
after  we  have  escaped  the  other,  but  demeaning 
ourselves,  as  the  redeemed  and  obliged  of  the 
Lord.  O  let  us  love  and  trust,  and  bless  and 
praise  the  Reliever  of  our  misery,  the  only  Giver 
of  all  victory,  and  the  God  of  all  our  mercies. 

For  Peace. 

OGOD  of  Peace,  that  makest  wars  to  cease 
to  the  ends  of  the  earth  ;  that  breakest  the 
bow,  and  cuttest  the  spear  asunder,  and  burnest 
the  chariot  in  the  fire !  thou  hast  in  mercy  put  a 
stop  to  the  effusion  of  blood,  and  made  peace  in 
our  borders;  thou  hast  rebuked  strong  nations, 
to  make  them  beat  their  swords  into  plough- 
shares, and  their  spears  into  pruning-hooks? 
that  nation  may  not  rise  against  nation,  but 
every  man  sit  under  his  vine,  and  under  his  fig- 
tree,  and  none  make  them  afraid.  O  how  sweet 
is  thy  mercy,  and  reviving,  as  life  from  the  dead! 
and  thou,  O  Lords  that  hast  given  us  peace,  O 
give  us  also  grace,  to  use  it  to  thy  glory,  and  to 
serve  thee  still  the  more  freely  and  cheerfully. 
That  we  may  not  only  have  peace  with  men,  but 
also  with  our  God:  even  the  peace  of  God  that 
passeth  all  understanding,  to  keep  our  hearts 
and  minds  through  Christ  Jesus. 

O  that  we  may  be  sensible  of  the  kindness  and 

M 


134     Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings. 

love  of  God  our  Saviour,  as  we  ought,  and  ever 
give  thee  thanks  with  all  our  souls  !  dear  Father 
Of  mercies  !  rather  take  all  our  good  things  from 
us,  than  leave  us  speechless  and  heartless  to  thy 
praise.  O  that  our  hearts  may  be  enlarged  in 
thy  love,  and  lifted  up  in  the  celebration  of  thy 
praises  !  To  thy  name,  O  Lord,  be  the  glory  of 
all  thy  mercy  and  bounty.  And  may  all  thy 
works  and  all  thy  servants  bless  thee,  and  praise 
thee,  and  magnify  thee  for  ever.  And  may  we 
have  grace  to  express  the  thankfulness  of  our 
hearts,  in  the  whole  conduct  of  our  lives :  de- 
voting ourselves  to  be  thine  in  faithfulness,  as 
long  as  we  are  in  being.  Amen,  Amen. 


Thanksgiving  after  a   safe  and  good  Journey. 

ALL  thanks  and  praise  that  I  am  able  to  ren- 
der, is  a  debt  that  I  owe  unto  thee,  O  Lord 
my  God:  and  I  desire  with  all  my  soul  to  pay  it; 
for  that  goodness  of  thine,  which  I  have  experi- 
enced all  along  now  in  my  journey;  where  thou 
hast  not  only  been  nigh  to  me.  and  watchful  over 
me,  to  secure  me  from  perils  of  the  way,  and  from 
every  sad  accident  that  might  have  befallen  me, 
but  hast  given  me  success,  and  surrounded  me 
with  blessings  and  comforts  on  every  side.  When 
at  every  turn,  and  every  step,  I  wras  exposed  to 
the  evils  that  might  have  hurt  or  spoiled  me: 
and  I  might  now  have  been  groaning  under 
broken  bones,  or  bruised  limbs,  or  ether  harms  : 
yea,  might  have  been  cut  oflfand  perished  in  the 
way ;  and  lost  not  only  health  and  strength,  but 
JJfe  itself:  thou,  Lord,  hast  in  mercy  preserved 
and  kept  me  in  safety,  and  brought  me  to  see 
my  habitation  in  peace,  arid  all  things  here,  even 
according  to  my  heart's  desire. 


Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings.        135 

A  horse  is  a  vain  thing  for  safety ;  and  nothing 
upon  earth  can  we  confide  in  to  defend  us,  if  the 
blessed  Keeper  of  Israel  do  not  cover  us  under  the 
shadow  of  his  wings  ;  and  give  his  angels  charge 
over  us,  to  keep  us  in  all  our  ways.  But  such  in- 
visible guards  1  have  had;  and  such  favour  from 
the  Lord  of  love  I  have  found.  Mercy  and  good- 
ness of  the  Lord  that  has  followed  me  all  the  days 
of  my  life,  has  been  renewed  afresh,  and  further 
manifested  to  me  in  these  my  travels.  And  O 
how  inexhaustible  is  the  kindness  and  bounty  of 
my  Lord,  never  weary  to  do  me  good  !  to  thee, 
O  God  of  my  life,  and  safety,  and  comfort,  be  all 
the  glory.  O  fill  me  with  a  most  grateful  sense  of 
such  thy  rich  grace  and  continual  mercy;  and 
give  me  a  heart  abounding  with  thankfulness 
and  with  thy  love  and  praises;  yea,  give  me 
also  grace  to  express  the  unfeigned  thanks  of  my 
heart,  in  all  the  ways  pleasing  to  thy  holy  will; 
through  the  beloved  of  my  soul,  my  blessed  Sa- 
viour arid  Redeemer,  Jesus  Christ. 

Thanksgiving  for  Preservation  and  Deliverance  from 
Dangers  and  Troubles. 

MANY,  O  Lord  my  God,  are  the  wonderful 
works  which  thou  hast  done;  and  thy 
thoughts  which  are  to  us-ward,  for  good,  they 
cannot  be  reckoned  up  in  order  unto  thec :  if  I 
should  declare  and  speak  of  them,  they  are  more 
than  can  be  numbered.  According  to  thy  name 
so  is  thy  praise,  to  the  ends  of  the  earth.  The 
dead  praise  thee  not,  nor  any  that  go  down  into 
silence;  the  living,  the  living,  they  shall  praise 
thee,  as  I  desire  with  all  my  soul  to  do  this  day. 
My  heart  is  fixed ;  O  God,  my  heart  is  fixed  :  I 
will  sing  and  give  praise.  I  will  be  glad  and  re- 


136     Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings. 

joice  in  thee,  and  sing  praise  to  thy  name,  O 
thou  Most  High.  I  will  praise  thee  O  Lord,  for 
thou  hast  heard  me,  and  art  become  my  salva- 
tion. I  found  trouble  and  sorrow,  then  I  called 
upon  thee ;  and  thou  wast  attentive  to  my  cry, 
and  nigh  to  my  help.  And  though  thou  mightest 
have  made  an  example  of  thy  judgments  to 
others,  as  others  have  been  made  so  to  me,  thou 
didst  not  consult  my  deserts,  but  my  distress; 
doing  great  things,  and  working  strange  deliver- 
ance for  me,  not  because  I  was  worthy,  but  be- 
cause thou  aboundest  in  mercy. 

O,  I  was  in  woful  perplexity;  fear  was  on 
every  side ;  all  my  hope  was  ready  to  expire ;  and 
I  thought  there  was  no  help  for  me,  but  I  must 
sink  and  perish.  Then  didst  thou,  O  Lord, 
interpose  between  me  and  the  threatening  mis- 
chief; and  reveal  thy  glorious  arm,  to  pluck  me 
out  of  the  very  jaws  of  destruction;  and  set  me 
at  liberty  from  any  amazing  fears,  and  in  safety 
from  the  dreadful  dangers;  and  hast  kept  me 
alive,  and  restored  my  comforts;  not  taken  me 
awny  in  the  midst  of  my  days,  no r  cutting  me  off 
untimely  from  the  land  of  the  living ;  but  spar- 
ing me  in  mercy,  and  giving  me,  as  it  were,  a 
uew  life  from  the  dead.  Thou  hast  chastened 
me,  but  not  given  me  over  to  death.  When  my 
foot  Clipped,  thy  mercy,  O  Lord,  held  me  up. 
Thou  art  the  God  that  dost  wonders ;  wonders 
of  power,  and  wonders  of  mercy.  As  nothing  is 
too  hard  for  thee  to  effect,  so  nothing  is  too  good 
for  thee  to  bestow.  Yea,  thy  kindness  and  thy 
help  at  hand,  in  the  woful  time  of  need,  is  so 
sweet  and  surprising,  that  nothing  can  so  affect 
and  transport  our  souls. 

Thou,  Lord,  hast  made  me  glad  through  thy 


Thanksgiving  for  Temporal  Blessings.     137 

work  ;  I  will  triumph  in  the  works  of  thy  hands. 
I  will  sing  of  thy  power;  yea,  1  will  sing  aloud  ot* 
thy  mercy,  for  thou  hast  been  my  defence  and 
my  refuge  in  the  day  of  my  trouble.  Unto  thee, 
O  my  Strength,  will  I  sing,  for  God  is  my  defence, 
and  the  God  of  my  mercy.  O  Lord  God,  merci- 
ful and  gracious!  I  am  now  sensible  of  such 
mercy  from  thee.  I  will  extol  thee,  who  hath 
exalted  me;  and  not  suffered  the  trouble  and 
danger  to  overwhelm  and  ruin  me.  In  my  dis- 
tress I  cried  to  thee,  and  thou  hast  enlarged  me. 

0  blessed  be  God,  who  hast  not  cast  away  my 
prayer,  nor  turned    his   mercy  from  me.     But, 
dearest  Lord !  thou  hast  kept  me  in  safety,  and 
caused  the  destruction  so  to  pass  over  me,  that 

1  suffered  but  in  my  own  fears  of  what  I  have  so 
little   felt.     I  cannot,  without  amazement,  look 
back  upon  the  perilous  case  that  I  was  in,  arid 
the  brink  of  ruin  that  I  lay  upon.     And   that  I 
should  escape,  as  I  have  done,  O  how  marvel- 
lous is  \\  in  my  eyes!  and  O  what  cause  have  I 
for  thy  praise,  that  lam  here  alive  to  praise  thee! 

0  my  God,  it  is  thy  good  hand  that  hast  wrought 
so  wonderfully  for  me,  and  thy  fatherly  kindness 
that  has  shown  such  extraordinary  favour  to  me: 
O !    if  I  had  been  snatched  away   unprepared, 
how  dreadful    a  change   should  I  have  found ! 
But  in  mercy,  and   love  to  my  soul  (I  give  thee 
glory)  thou  hast  made  away  for  my  escape;  arid 

1  am  preserved    the  living  monument  of  thy  un- 
speakable   goodness. 

O  what  shall  I  say  unto  thee,  whose  name  is 
exalted  far  above  all  blessings  and  praise:  and 
what  shall  I  do  for  thee,  to  whom  my  goodness 
will  not  extend  !  I  can  never  answer  the  obliga- 
tion which  thy  love,  dear  Lord,  has  laid  upon 
M2 


138  Jlftw  Recovery  from  Sickness. 

me:  but  let  me  admire  and  love,  and  bless  and 
praise  thee,  with  all  the  capacities  and  abilities 
which  thou  hast  given  me.  And  O  that  thou 
wouldst  imprint  so  deep  upon  my  heart  the 
sense  of  such  seasonable  relief,  and  wonderful 
mercy;  that  I  may  never  forget,  never  slight  or 
abuse  the  great  goodness  that  thou  hast  showed 
me,  and  the  signal  preservation,  and  recovery 
which  thou  hast  wrought  for  me:  but  ever  give 
thee  thanks  with  all  my  heart;  and  carry  as  one 
that  is  so  highly  obliged,  all  the  days  of  my  life: 
not  secure  and  careless,  bucause  1  have  so  es- 
caped; but  the  more  watchful  and  diligent,  the 
more  I  have  been  engaged  and  favoured;  ap- 
proving my  thankfulness  in  such  a  manner,  as 
thou  mayest  graciously  accept  in  my  blessed 
Saviour  Jesus  Christ. 

Thanksgiving  and  Prayer  after  Recovery  out  of  a 
dangerous  Sickness. 

OGOD  of  my  life!  in  whose  hand  my  breath 
is,  and  by  whom  all  men  do  live,  and  have 
their  days  here  prolonged  or  shortened,  1  was 
brought  low,  and  ready  to  think  that  thou  wouldst 
now  determine,  and  make  an  end  of  my  days  up- 
on earth;  and  counted  myself  so  nigh  unto  death, 
that  I  expected  every  day,  when  the  last  enemy 
which  lay  in  wait  for  me,  would  come  and  seize 
upon  me. 

But  thou,  Lord,  hast  graciously  disappointed 
my  fears,  and  rescued  me  from  his  hands;  and 
raised  me  up  to  walk  again  before  thee  in  the 
land  of  the  living.  Though  thou  broughtest  me 
even  to  the  mouth  of  the  grave,  yet  hast  thou 
brought  me  back,  that  the  pit  of  corruption  should 
not  swallow  me  up.  And  thou  that  gi  vest  me  life 


.After  Recovery  from  Sichiess.  1 39 

at  first,  has  now  given  it  to  me  afresh.  And  to 
thee,  my  God,  I  desire  therefore,  with  all  my 
soul,  to  give  all  the  praise.  O  blessed  be  my 
great  Preserver,  the  dear  and  only  Saviour  of 
my  body,  as  well  as  soul;  the  God  of  my  health, 
my  heaverriy  Physician,  my  life,  and  the  length  of 
my  days.  O  that  I  may  live  to  declare  the  works 
of  the  Lord,  and  set  forth  the  honour  of  his  name! 
that  I  may  not  look  upon  rny  extended  life,  as  an 
occasion  to  the  flesh;  to  enjoy  my  liberty  and 
pleasure  upon  earth;  but  as  an  engagement  on 
my  heart,  to  abound  in  gratitude,  and  love  and 
praise,  and  all  faithful  duty,  and  cheerful  obedi- 
ence to  my  gracious  God. 

For  in  mercy  to  my  soul,  the  Lord  has  given 
me  a  further  allowance  of  time  in  the  world,  to 
fill  up  what  \vas  wanting  in  my  spiritual  estate, 
and  to  make  a  better  preparation  for  the  heaven- 
ly kingdom.  And  upon  this  account  alone  it  is 
that  our  life  is  so  valuable,  arid  our  time  so  pre- 
cious here  upon  earth;  that  we  may  have  space 
to  repent ;  and  the  opportunity  to  correct  the 
errors  of  our  past  life,  and  to  secure  the  greatest 
of  all  our  effects  ;  to  serve  our  Lord  to  more  well 
pleasing;  and  to  dress  up  ourselves  into  a  great- 
er fitness  to  meet  the  eternal  glorious  Bridegroom. 
O  that  the  life  now  renewed  to  myself,  may  also 
be  a  new  life  to  the  Lord.  That  I  may  not  only 
say,  I  thought  I  should  have  died  ;  but  may  car- 
ry myself  henceforth  as  one  restored  even  from 
the  dead  ;  and  live  with  such  dying  thoughts,  that 
when  at  last  I  come  to  die,  I  may  depart  with 
lively  hopes  of  eternal  blessedness. 

For  it  is  no  total  escape,  but  only  a  reprieve, 
that  is  now  granted  to  me;  and  my  death  is  a 
debt. to  nature,  that  must  be  paid;  nor  is  there 


140  Jlfter  Recovery  from  Sickness. 

any  avoiding  it  ;  but  the  hands  of  death,  that  have 
been  catching  at  rne,  will  yet  certanly  take  hold 
of  me  ;  and  1  know  not  how  soon  I  may  be  down 
again;  and  not  only  threatened,  but  enclosed  by 
the  grave  ;  for  that  is  my  house,  where,  after  all, 
I  must  take  up  my  abode,  and  return  to  dust. 
And  when  I  least  think  of  it,  O  how  suddenly  may 
I  be  cut  off,  arid  take  my  last  leave  of  this 
world  ! 

O  let  me  not  live  then  as  if  I  should  never  see 
death  ;  nor  put  it  far  from  me,  as  if  it  should  ne- 
ver be  upon  me  ;  nor  reckon  upon  any  sure  stand- 
ing, or  long  abiding,  in  such  a  changeable  transi- 
tory world,  that  is  but  the  house  of  our  pilgrim- 
age, and  none  of  our  home,  nor  the  place  of  our 
rest.  But  when  dust  I  am,  and  to  dust  I  must  re- 
turn, O  help  me,  Lord,  so  to  remember  arid  con- 
sider my  death,  that  I  may  be  the  better  fitted 
for  it,  in  all  the.  course  and  conduct  of  my  life; 
with  such  wise  arid  holy  circumspection,  carrying 
myself  and  ordering  all  my  conversation  in  the 
world  :  that  when  I  must  close  my  eyes  upon  this 
present  scene  of  things,  I  may  depart  hence,  full 
of  peace,  and  hope,  to  enjoy  far  better  and  more 
durable  goods  than  any  are  here  to  be  found. 
And  for  my  recovery,  and  such  health  as  I  en- 
joy at  present,  O  let  me  pny  my  vows  to  the 
Lord:  and  from  the  ground  of  the  heart,  ascribe 
to  the  God  of  my  salvation,  all  glory,  thanks, 
love,  and  service,  throughout  the  whole  remain- 
der of  my  life,  and  for  evermore.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  for  Blessing  -,  Direction,  Help  and  good 

Success,    in   any  great   Enterprise. 
LORD  God,  infinitely  wise  and  good,  who 
teacheth  man  knowledge,  arid  givest  both  the 


O 


A  Prayer  for  Blessings^  8fC.  141 

skill  and  power  to  accomplish  our  purposes;  and 
also  the  blessings  and  success  to  bring  things  to 
pass  according  to  our  wishes!  I  know  not  what 
to  do.  But  my  eyes  are  upon  thee;  and  all  my 
expectation  is  from  thee;  and  still  I  desire  towait> 
and  call,  and  depend  upon  thee.  A  great  work 
now  I  have  to  do;  but  O  how  little  strength  to  do 
it!  All  my  sufficiency  is  of  thee,  who  workest 
in  us  to  will  and  to  do,  of  thy  good  pleasure. 
Thou  that  hast  been  my  help,  leave  me  not,  nor 
forsake  me,  O  God  of  my  salvation;  but  let  me 
be  taught  of  God  what  I  have  to  do,  and  let  the 
gracious  Lord  make  me  to  understand  what  is 
thy  pleasure  concerning  me.  O  that  my  ways 
were  directed  to  please  thee,  that  I  may  have 
the  light  of  thy  countenance  shining  upon  me. 

My  Lord  and  my  God,  leave  me  not  in  the 
hand  of  my  own  counsel,  nor  to  the  conduct  of 
my  own  foolish  and  deceitful  heart,  but  lead  me 
by  the  way  that  I  shall  go,  and  guide  me  con- 
tinually, that  discretion  may  preserve  me,  and 
understanding  may  keep  me.  O  make  my  way 
prosperous,  and  give  me  thy  blessing  and  good 
success.  Bring  all  needful  things  to  my  remem- 
brance; and  where  I  have  not  the  presence  of 
mind  rior  power  of  performance,  O  magnify  thy 
power  in  my  weakness ;  and  let  me  go  forth  in 
thy  name  and  strength,  and  speed,  and  prosper 
ly  thy  grace  and  blessing.  Let  thy  good  provi- 
dence so  be  my  defence  and  security,  and  thy 
holy  Spirit  my  guide  and  counsellor,  that  I  may 
wisely  choose,  and  rightly  manage,  and  success- 
fully accomplish,  the  things  wherein  I  have  en- 
gaged. 

Thy  will  be  done,  O  Lord,  however  I  am 
pleased  or  crossed ;  and  let  me  ever  design  thy 


142  A  Prayer  when  going  Mroad. 

glory,  whether  it  make  for  my  gain  or  loss,  in  any 
respect  in  this  present  life.  O  be  thou  still  a 
gracious  Father  to  me,  and  a  merciful  Provider 
for  me  ;  and  grant  me  now  the  comfortable  sense 
of  thy  good  acceptance  of  me,  and  thy  designs  of 
mercy  toward  me.  Be  thou  pleased  to  take  me 
to  thy  fatherly  care,  and  conduct  and  preserve 
me  from  the  evils  into  which  I  am  prone  to  fall, 
and  quicken  me  to  the  good  which  I  am  averse 
to  perform.  O  establish  thou  the  work  of  thy 
hands  upon  me !  yea,  the  work  of  thy  hands  es- 
tablish thou  :t.  My  God  and  Guide,  my  Help 
and  Strength;  if  thou  lead  me  not,  I  shall  run  in 
to  errors;  if  thou  keep  me  not,  I  shall  fall  into 
dangers;  but  hold  thou  me  up,  and  I  shall  be 
safe.  And  let  me  experience  thy  power  and 
presence  with  me,  and  all  the  goodness  of  the 
Lord  passing  before  me,  that  I  may  so  go  through 
this  and  all  the  affairs  of  my  life,  that,  at  my  last 
reflection  upon  what  is  past,  my  soul  may  have 
peace,  and  give  thy  name  the  praise,  through 
Jesus  Christ.  Jlmen. 

A  Prayer  when  going  Jlbroad. 

OLORD,  thou  art  the  same  God  in  all 
places  ;  and  no  where  can  I  go  but  thou 
art  there.  Both  at  home  and  abroad,  on  my 
way  and  at  the  end,  thou  art  ever  with  me  by 
the  universal  presence  of  thy  grace,  and  thy  good 
Spirit,  to  conduct  and  guide  me  continually;  to 
protect  and  save  me  from  all  dangers  and  mis- 
chiefs; and  to  make  my  way  prosperous,  and  all 
my  affairs  successful.  O  let  the  blessing  of  the 
Lord  follow  me, and  rest  upon  me;  and  preserve 
my  going  out.  and  my  coming  in;  and  never 
leave  me  nor  forsake  me,  O  Lcrd ;  but  be  my 


For  Knowledge.  143 

God  and  Guide  this  day,  and  in  all  this  my  in- 
tended journey,  and  all  my  life  long;  which  is 
but  a  pilgrimage  and  passage  through  this  world, 
in  which  I  arn  continually  hastening  home,  to  the 
period  of  all  my  travels,  to  the  place  where  I 
must  take  up  and  dwell  forever. 

O  good  God,  make  me  continually  mindful  of 
that  progress,  and  of  that  journey's  end  ;  arid 
keep  me  from  sinful  wanderings,  and  those  worst 
of  all  falls,  to  fall  from  my  God.  Take  care  of 
me,  I  beseech  thee,  and  lead  me,  and  keep  me, 
and  help  me  :  and  after  all  my  motions  here,  O 
bring  me  safe  at  last  to  thy  holy  hill,  and  to  thy 
heavenly  rest,  to  the  blessed  end  of  my  faith,  the 
everlasting  salvation  of  my  soul,  through  the 
greatness  of  thy  mercy  to  me,  in  thy  dear  Son, 
my  gracious  Lord,  and  only  Saviour,  Jesus 
Christ.  Amen. 

ji  Prayer  for  Illumination  and  Knowledge. 

OLORD,  the  eternal  uncreated  Light;  thou 
hast  not  left  thyself  without  witness  amongst 
us,  but  in  thy  word  and  works  before  us,  in  our 
souls  and  consciences  within  us,  and  in  all  thy 
creatures  on  every  side  of  us,  we  may  see  the 
tracks  of  thy  presence,  thy  power,  wisdom  and 
goodness.  That  I  have  therefore  no  more  and 
better  knowledge  of  God,  and  the  things  belong- 
ing to  my  peace,  it  is  my  shame,  and  owing  to 
my  sinful  dulness  and  negligence,  in  that  which 
does  most  nearly  and  eternally  concern  me.  Ah 
Lord,  I  have  not  improved  in  knowledge  answer- 
able to  the  light  which  thou  hast  caused  to  shine 
upon  me,  nor  according  to  the  means  of  instruc- 
tion wherewith  thou  hast  blessed  me :  but  I  have 
need  to  be  taught  myself  the  things  whereof  I 


144  For  Knowledge. 

might  have  been  a  teacher  to  others  ;  for  which 
I  desire,  Lord,  to  humble  myself,  and  to  beg  thy 
pardon,  and  come  now  to  ask  wisdom  of  God,  who 
givest  to  all  men  liberally,  and  upbraidest  not. 

I  cannot  see  or  know  thee  O  Lord,  but  by  the 
beams  of  thy  own  light,  which  thou  art  pleased 
to  impart.  O  wilt  thou  vouchsafe  yet  further  and 
more  fully  to  discover  and  manifest  thyself  to  my 
soul  5  and  teach  me  to  know  aright  thee,  the  on- 
ly true  God,  and  Jesus  Chist,  whom  thou  hast 
sent !  O  blessed  Sun  of  righteousness,  arise  upon 
me  with  healing  in  thy  wings,  to  scatter  all  the 
clouds  of  folly  and  ignorance,  and  error,  and 
prejudice,  that  overspread  my  soul.  Open  my 
eyes  that  I  may  behold  wondrous  things  out  of 
thy  law;  and  open  my  understanding  that  I  may 
understand  the  scriptures,  and  not  remain  in 
darkness  concerning  any  thing  that  is  needful  for 
me  to  know,  in  order  to  my  present  peace  and 
duty,  and  to  my  eternal  bliss  and  felicity.  And 
whereinsoever  L  or  any  whom  I  am  concerned 
with,  or  for,  are  otherwise  minded  than  we  ought 
to  be,  O  God  reveal  the  same  to  us;  and  let  us 
all  be  taught  of  thee  to  know  thee,  from  the 
greatest  to  the  least !  and  not  be  unwise,  but  un- 
derstanding what  the  will  of  the  Lord  is. 

That  the  soul  be  without  knowledge  is  not 
good:  O  incline  oiir  ears  to  wisdom,  and  our 
hearts  to  understanding;  that  we  may  follow  on 
to  Know  the  Lord,  and  increase  in  the  know- 
ledge of  God.  Show  us  thy  wnys,  O  Lord,  and 
lead  us  in  thy  truth.  And  whatever  else  we  are 
ignorant  of,  unto  us  let  it  be  given  to  know  the 
mysteries  of  the  kingdom  of  God;  and  to  know 
what  we  are  to  believe,  and  how  we  are  to  con- 
vince of  thy  blessed  self,  and  all  the  things  of 


For  Repentance.  145 

God  that  concern  us.  O  Lord,  our  light,  give  us 
understanding  in  the.  way  of  godliness;  a  spiritu- 
al discerning  of  the  things  of  thy  Spirit;  and 
make  us  wise  to  salvation.  Give  us  the  spirit  of 
wisdom  and  revelation,  in  the  knowledge  of  thee: 
the  eyes  of  our  understanding  being  enlightened, 
that  we  may  see  what  is  the  hope  of  thy  calling, 
and  \\hat  the  riches  of  the  glory  of  thy  inherit- 
ance in  thy  saints,  and  what  the  mighty  power  of 
thy  Spirit,  which  works  in  them  that  do  believe. 
O  put  thy  law  in  our  inward  parts,  and  write 
it  in  our  hearts,  that  we  may  be  well  acquainted 
with  thy  will  revealed  in  thy  word  ;  that  the  scrip- 
ture may  not  be  to  us  a  book  sealed,  or  a  gospel 
hid;  but  a  lamp  to  our  feet  and  a  light  to  our 
path;  to  show  us  what  we  have  to  do,  and  how 
to  demean  ourselves  in  all  estates,  affairs,  arid 
circumstances  of  our  lives.  O  that  our  ways  were 
directed  to  keep  thy  statues!  And  help  us,  O 
Lord,  so  to  do  thy  will,  that  we  may  know  the 
scriptures  to  be  of  God,  and  may  have  the  wit- 
ness in  ourselves;  and  perceive  the  divinity  of 
thy  word,  by  the  heavenly  power  and  efficacy  ol 
it  upon  "our  lives.  And  though  now  we  see  but 
darkly,  as  in  a  glass,  and  know  but  in  part;  and 
cannot  by  searching  find  out  the  Almighty  to 
perfection,  yet  help  us  still  more  and  better  to 
know  our  God,  so  as  we  can  know;  till  hereafter 
we  shall  know  as  we  are  known,  and  to  see 
face  to  face,  in  that  blessed  presence  of  thine, 
where  is  fulness  of  joy  for  evermore.  Amen. 

Ji  Prayer  for  Repentance. 

OMOST  holy  Lord  God,  against  whom  Thave 
greatly  sinned,  and  who  for  my  sins  art  just- 
ly displeased  ;  thou  hast  revealed  thyself  from 

N 


146  For  Repentance. 

heaven  against  all  ungodliness  and  unrighteous- 
ness of  men,  that  impenitently  go  on  in  their  tres- 
passes; and  hast  let  us  know,  that  as  we  all  have 
sinned,  so,  except  we  repent,  we  shall  all  perish. 
Even  the  Saviour  of  sinners  will  riot  save  any 
sinner  without  repentance ;  nor  dost  thou  remit 
what  we  do  not  repent ;  though  upon  our  repent- 
ance, thou  hast  assured  us  of  thy  gracious  par- 
don and  acceptance :  and  when  we  return  unto 
thee,  and  humble  ourselves  before  thee,  thou 
wilt  show  us  thy  compassion,  and  grant  us  thy 
salvation.  O  gracious  Lord!  great  is  thy  mercy 
to  vouchsafe  unto  us  this  remedy;  and  to  deal 
so  favourably  with  us  as  to  forgive  and  receive  us, 
when  we  are  but  sensible  of  our  miscarriages 
and  rebellions;  and  humbly  submit  ourselves, 
and  leave  off  to  do  so  foolishly  and  wickedly. 
Such  humiliation  and  reformation  is  the  best  and 
most  needful  thing  for  me  to  do ;  but  O  how 
averse  and  insufficient  am  I  to  do  it!  thou 
Searcher  of  hearts,  knowest  my  heart  to  be  so 
hardened,  through  the  deceitfulness  of  sin,  that 
as  soon  may  I  fetch  water  out  of  the  flint,  as  godly 
sorrow  out  of  this  obdurate  heart  of  mine;  if  thou 
the  great  God  do  not  soften  it  with  thy  holy  fear, 
and  dissolve  and  overcome  it  with  thy  powerful 
love:  and  that  I  can  no  more  turn  with  all  my 
heart  to  the  Lord  than  I  can  turn  the  course  of 
a  river  to  run  back  to  the  fountain,  unless  thou 
draw  me  by  thy  grace,  and  give  me  power  from 
on  high,  to  enable  me  for  the  blessed  work. 

O  thou  that  didst  cause  water  to  gush  out  of  the 
stony  rock,  wilt  thou  break  and  melt  my  rocky 
heart  into  such  contrition  as  works  repentance 
unto  salvation!  Yea,  thou  that  fashionest  all  the 
hearts  of  the  sons  of  men,  take  away  from  me 


For  Repentance.  147 

the  heart  of  stone,  and  give  me  a  heart  of  flesh, 
broken  and  contrite, such  as  thou  wiltnotdespise, 
that  I  may  look  upon  him  whom  rny  sins  have 
pierced  and  mourn;  and  be  in  bitterness  for  all 
the  foul  offences  that  1  have  committed  against 
the  Lord  of  love,  the  God  of  all  my  mercies.  O 
give  me  such  true  repentance  for  them,  that  thou 
in  lyest  also  give  me  full  pardon  of  them.  Give 
me,  good  Lord,  that  repentance  which  thy  holy 
word  requires,  and  such  as  thy  gracious  goodness 
in  Christ  Jesus  will  mercifully  accept;  even  the 
repentance  unto  life,  never  to  be  repented  of. 
O  help  me  so  to  repent,  and  to  be  converted, 
that  my  sins  may  be  blotted  out,  when  the  times 
of  refreshing  shall  come  from  the  presence  of 
the  Lord.  Turn  thou  me,  O  Lord  God  of  my  sal- 
vation, and  so  shall  I  be  turned,  and  change  my 
mind,  and  amend  my  life,  and  bring  forth  fruits 
meet  for  repentance;  not  only  confessing  and  be- 
wailing sins  committed,  but  also  hating  and  for- 
saking sins  confessed  ond  bewailed,  loathing,  as 
much  as  ever  I  have  loved,  the  things  that  dis- 
please thy  holy  will,  and  dishonour  thy  blessed 
name. 

What  I  cannot  recall,  yet,  Lord,  give  me  grace 
to  repent.  And  where  lam,  alas!  so  far  from  in- 
nocent, Father  of  mercies,  make  me  penitent 
And  touch  my  heart  with  such  a  powerful  sense 
of  all  thy  loving  kindness,  as  may  work  upon  my 
ingenuity;  to  break  my  heart  for  my  sins,  and 
from  them ;  arid  make  me  sorrowfully  concerned, 
that  ever  I  should  commit  offences  so  great 
against  the  God  so  infinitely  good  :  yea,  make 
me  so  circumspect  and  full  of  care,  to  keep  my- 
self henceforth  in  thy  fear  and  love;  that  I  may 
never  be  so  strange  to  thee  as  I  have  been;  nor 


148  For  Faith. 

fall  away  from  thee,  and  trespass  upon  thce,  as  I 
have  done.  O  my  God!  let  thy  goodness  lead 
me  to  such  repentance.  And  help  me  so  to  break 
off' my  sins,  and  turn  and  cleave  unto  thy  blessed 
self,  that  thou  mayest  have  mercy  upon  me,  and 
abundantly  pardon  all  my  aboundingsins,  through 
the  infinite  riches  of  thy  grace  and  goodness,  in 
the  Son  of  thy  love,  my  only  Saviour,  Jesus 
Christ.  Jlmen. 


A  Prayer  for  Faith  and  Trust  in  God. 

WITHOUT  faith,  it  is  impossible  to  please 
thee,  O  God,  and  therefore  I  come  to  beg 
of  thee  that  faith  which  is  thy  gift.  Lord,  help  my 
unbelief,  and  increase  my  faith.  Whatever  thou 
hast  revealed,  let  me  take  it  upon  the  credit  of 
thy  word  :  and  where  I  have  thy  promise,  let  me 
not  stagger  through  unbelief;  but  fully  persuade 
myself  it  shall  be  as  thou  hast  said.  O  bless  and 
enrich  my  soul,  w  ith  such  a  holy,  lively,  and  un- 
feigned faith,  as  may  enlighten  my  mind,  and 
purify  my  heart,  and  influence  my  whole  life: 
such  a  faith  as  may  enable  me  to  receive  Jesus 
Christ  for  my  Saviour,  and  heartily  give  up  my- 
self to  him  for  my  Lord  ;  so  to  be  ruled  and 
sanctified  by  him  herein  this  life,  that  I  may  be 
for  ever  saved  and  glorified  by  him,  in  that  life 
which  is  to  come.  O  help  me  so  to  assent  unto 
the  truths,  that  I  may  also  consent  to  the  terms 
of  the  gospel:  and  work  in  me  that  effectual 
faith,  which  may  work  by  love,  and  may  enable 
me  to  overcome  the  world  and  to  live  above  it; 
looking  at  and  for  the  great  and  glorious  things 
of  a  better  world;  those  unseen  things  that  are 
eternal. 

In  my  greatest  darkness  and  distress,  O  let  me 


To  live  by  Faith  upon  Christ,  be.  149 

trust  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  and  stay  myself 
upon  my  God ;  committing  my  ways  unto  thee, 
and  casting  my  burthen  upon  thee,  who  carest 
for  us ;  yea,  putting  my  trust  in  thee,  though  thou 
slay  me;  trusting  in  thy  almighty  power  to  help 
and  save;  in  thy  tender  inclinations  to  pity  and 
relieve;  and  in  the  sure  promises  which  thy  love 
hath  made,  and  which  thy  faithfulness  will  cer- 
tainly make  good  unto  all  that  wait  and  call  up- 
on thee,  to  remember  thy  word  unto  thy  servants, 
upon  which  thou  hast  caused  them  to  hope.  And 
though  I  am  not  presently  answered  in  the  wishes 
of  my  heart,  O  let  me  tarry  and  wait  patiently 
for  the  salvation  of  the  Lord;  and  have  my  eyes 
upon  the  Lord  God,  till  he  have  mercy  on  me» 
Yea,  make  me  so  sound  and  strong  in  the  faith,, 
that  my  faith  may  never  fail;  but  that  it  may  be 
found  to  praise,  and  honour,  and  glory  in  every 
time  of  trial,  and  at  the  great  appearing  of  our 
Lord  and  Saviour,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  for  Power  to  live  by  Faith  upsr*  Christ  and 
the  Divine  Promises. 

IT  is  the  command  of  my  Saviour,  that  they 
who  believe  in  God,  should  believe  also  in 
him,  as  our  only  Mediator  with  the  Father;  to 
whom  none  can  come,  but  by  him:  neither  is 
there  salvation  in  any  other;  who  counts  it  no 
robbery  to  be  equal  with  God:  yea,  who  him- 
self  is  over  all,  God,  blessed  for  ever.  But  it  is 
life  eternal  to  know  him ;  and  none  shall  perish 
that  believe  in  him.  O  the  riches  of  grace,  and 
the  wonders  of  divine  mercy,  that  it  should  so  be 
done  to  poor  sinners.  Blessed  for  ever  be  thy 
glorious  name,  O  God  of  all  grace,  who  of  thy 
abundant  mercy,  has  provided  such  a  wonderful 

M   9 


1 50  To  live  by  Faith  upon  Christ* 

remedy  for  our  sinful  misery;  to  save  us  through 
faith  in  him,  where  we  could  riot  be  saved  by  any 
merits  or  performances  of  our  own. 

Great  and  holy  Lord  !  in  all  that  ever  I  do,  I 
cannot  but  see  the  extreme  need  of  a  Saviour; 
and  that  I  am  undone  without  the  free  grace  of 
God  iif  Jesus  Christ.  And  therefore  I  desire  to 
go  even  out  of  myself,  and  to  be  found  in  him; 
not  having  my  own  righteousness,  but  that  which 
is  through  the  faith  of  him;  and  to  sit  down 
under  the  shadow  of  that  blessed  tree  of  life, 
which  yields  the  richest  fruits,  most  sweet  to 
the  taste  of  all  sensible  souls.  O  that  Christ,  who 
is  the  end  of  the  law  for  righteousness  to  every  OKC 
that  believeth,  may  be  the  Lord  my  righteous- 
ness !  that  his  righteousness  may  be  imputed  to 
me;  and  that  with  the  heart  1  may  believe  unto 
righteousness:  even  so  believe  in  Jesus  Christ, 
that  I  may  be  justified  by  faith,  and  have  peace 
with  God  through  him. 

The  blessed  Jesus  is  my  life  and  strength,  my 
wisdom  and  riches,  my  health  and  joy,  my  glory, 
and  my  all:  there  is  no  healing  for  my  soul,  but 
in  his  blood;  no  peace  for  my  conscience,  but  in 
his  reconciling  me  to  God;  no  satisfaction  to  my 
mind,  but  in  that  most  perfect  atonement,  which 
satisfies  even  tire  strictest  justice  of  heaven.  O 
none  but  Christ ;  none  but  Christ !  Without  this 
all-sufficient  Redeemer,  I  am  a  lost  creature,  I 
beseech  thee,  therefore,  O  Lord,  whatever  else 
I  want,  leave  me  not  destitute  of  him;  but  give 
me  Christ,  or  I  die  eternally.  Though  I  confess 
myself  most  unworthy  of  him,  and  that  F  deserve 
to  «co  for  ever  without  him,  because  I  have  so 
wickedly  despised  him,  and  neglected  his  great 
salvation,  and  abused  all  his  kindness  and  love; 


and  the  Promises  of  God.  151 

yet  1  dare  not  add  this  to  all  my  other  offences, 
to  despair  of  that  mercy  of  thine,  O  Lord,  which 
in  him  thou  art  pleased  to  hold  forth,  even  to  the 
most  sinful  and  unworthy.  Seeing  thou  art  in. 
Christ  Jesus,  a  God  reconciling  the  world  to  thy- 
self, and  hast  given  him  to  be  the  propitiation  for 
our  sins;  and  he  came  to  seek  and  to  save  even 
the  lost,  and  to  call  sinners  to  repentance;  and 
invites  to  him  the  labouring  and  heavy  laden; 
yea,  bids  whoever  is  athirst  to  corne,  and  take 
the  water  of  life  freely,  without  money,  and  with- 
out price ;  and  promises  that  such  as  come  to 
him,  he  will  in  no  wise  cast  out:  to  him  there- 
fore I  look,  and  in  him  will  I  trust;  and  of  thee, 
my  gracious  Father,  I  beg  for  help  to  do  it  as  I 
ought.  O  be  thou  pleased  to  shine  into  my  heart 
with  thy  heavenly  light,  to  reveal  thy  Son  in  me; 
and  to  show  me  his  all-sufficiency  for  me,  and 
my  own  happy  share  and  imterest  in  him.  Dear 
Lord!  give  me  thy  Son  to  save  me;  and  give  me 
thy  Spirit  to  draw  me  to  him,  and  enable  me  to 
take  hold  of  him,  to  rely  upon  him,  and  to  believe 
in  him,  to  the  saving  of  my  soul.  O  make  me 
more  acquainted  with  the  way  of  saving  sinners 
by  Jesus  Christ;  and  help  me,  for  my  own  part, 
to  acquiesce  in  it,  and  to  submit  to  the  righteous- 
ness of  God. 

Seeing  thou,  O  God  of  all  grace,  justifiest  sin- 
ners freely  by  thy  grace,  not  for  the  worth  of  our 
works,  but  for  the  worthiness  of  thy  Son,  through 
the  redemption  that  is  in  Jesus  Christ,  O  may  it 
be  given  unto  me  to  believe  on  him,  and  to  re- 
pose all  my  trust  in  him,  that  believing  I  may 
Inve  life  through  his  name.  And  may  I  still  be 
fully  persuaded  in  my  nf.rrl.  that  he  is  the  true 
Messias,  and  the  only  Saviour  of  the  world  ;  am1. 


152  To  live  by  Faith  upon  Christ, 

never  distrust  his  power,  or  his  love;  nor  be 
faithless,  but  believing  that  Christ  is  my  Lord 
and  my  God,  who  loved  me,  and  washed  me  from 
my  sins  in  his  own  blood.  And  the  God  of  hope 
fill  me  with  all  joy  and  peace  in  believing,  that 
this  may  be  all  my  solace,  and  my  soul's  rest,  to 
lie  at  the  feet  of  Jesus,  to  cast  my  burden  upon 
the  Lord,  and  to  lean  on  the  beloved  of  my  soul, 
and  upon  the  promises  of  God  in  Christ.  Though 
(here  is  nothing  in  me  but  pollution  and  disor- 
der, O  let  me  not  keep  off  from  my  Saviour;  but 
come  to  him  at  his  call,  and  believe  in  the  name 
of  the  Son  of  God  to  be  made  clean  and  whole. 
None  can  more  need  his  help,  Lord,  than  1  do; 
O  that  it  may  not  pass  by  me;  but  let  the  Sa- 
viour of  the  world  be  the  Saviour  of  my  soul; 
and  let  Christ  abide  with  my  spirit,  and  be  ever 
at  hand  to  do  me  good.  O  that  my  Redeemer 
may  look  with  such  an  eye  of  favour  upon  me, 
and  revive  me  with  some  token  of  his  love, 
which  is  better  than  all  the  enjoyments  and 
comforts  of  the  world* 

Help  me,  O  thou  great  Author  and  Finisher  of 
our  faith,  to  pray  in  faith;  believing  that  I  shall 
receive  the  things  which  I  ask  in  thy  name.  O 
my  Lord  and  my  God  !  make  me  to  know  and  to 
believe  the  love  that  thou  hast  to  me ;  yea,  that 
thou  hast  loved  me  with  an  everlasting  love. 
And  let  it  bear  me  up  under  all  troubles,  fortify 
me  against  all  temptations,  and  quicken  and  en- 
able me  for  the  performance  of  all  my  duties,  to 
know  whom  1  have  believed,  and  to  know  that 
the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  is  my  Strength  and  my 
Redeemer.  O  that  Christ  may  dwell  in  my  heart 
by  faith;  and  that  the  life  which  I  now  live,  may 
be  by  the  faith  of  the  Son  of  God,  who  loved  me 


and  the  Promises  of  God.  153 

and  gave  himself  for  me  ;  in  whom,  though  I  now 
see  him  not,  yet  believing,  let  me  rejoice  with 
unspeakable  glorious  joy. 

For  it  is  thy  gracious  promise,  Lord,  to  blot 
out  thy  people's  transgressions,  for  thine  own 
sake,  and  to  heal  their  backslidings,  and  not  re- 
member their  sins,  nor  let  sin  have  dominion 
over  them;  yea,  to  have  mercy  even  upon  the 
wicked  and  the  unrighteous  man  forsaking  his 
way  arid  his  thoughts,  and  abundantly  to  pardon; 
to  give  to  thy  servants  the  heart  of  flesh;  a  new 
heart,  and  a  new  spirit;  to  teach  them,  and 
quicken  them;  to  put  thy  Spirit  within  them,  and 
cause  them  to  walk  in  thy  statutes,  and  to  keep 
thy  judgments,  and  to  do  them  ;  to  perform  the 
good  work  in  them ;  and  though  they  fall,  to  up- 
hold them  with  thy  hand,  arid  let  none  pluck 
them  outof  it ;  yea,  to  put  thy  fear  in  their  hearts, 
that  they  shall  not  depart  from  thee,  and  to  pre- 
serve them  to  thy  heavenly  kingdom  and  give 
unto  them  eternal  life.  O  exceeding  great  and 
precious  promises!  such  cordials  to  poor  fainting 
souls!  But  they  are  not  too  great  to  be  made 
good  ;  for  faithful  is  he  that  has  promised,  who 
also  will  do  it.  It  is  ratified  in  heaven;  and  not 
one  jot  or  tittle  of  thy  word,  Lord,  shall  pass 
away,  till  all  be  fulfilled.  O  let  me  believe  that 
I,  even  I,  shall  see  it.  What  time  I  am  afraid, 
let  me  trust  in  thee;  and  give  glory  to  God,  in 
believing  thy  gracious  promises,  though  I  know 
Low  unworthy  1  am  to  have  them  accomplished 
upon  me.  Let  me  lay  up  thy  kind  words  of  pro- 
mise, O  my  Father,  as  the  richest  treasure;  and 
confide  in  them  as  the  surest  tenure;  counting 
nothing  so  firm  as  what  God  hath  said  ;  and  des- 
pising all  the  wealth  arid  honours,  and  pleasures 


154  For   Divine  Assistance. 

of  the  world,  in  comparison  of  thyself,  and  thy 
Son,  and  thy  Spirit,  thy  love,  and  thy  grace  and 
glory;  which  I  earnestly  beg  of  thy  bountiful 
hands,  for  Jesus  Christ,  his  sake.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  the  Divine  Assistance. 

O  LORD  God  Almighty,  who  gi  vest  power  to 
the  faint,  and  increasest  strength  to  them 
that  have  no  might !     Without  thee  I  can  do  no- 
thing; not  so  much  as  will  or  think  any  good, 
nor  keep  myself  from  any  evil;  but  by  thy  gra- 
cious assistance  it  is  that  I  am   enabled  for  the 
performance  of  every  duty  laying  upon  me  ;  and 
my  help  is  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  made 
heaven  and  earth;  and  thou  art  able  to  keep  us 
from  falling,  and  to  make  us  perfect  in  every  good 
work,  to  do  thy  will,  working  in  us  that  which  is 
well-pleasing  in  thy  sight  through  Jesus  Christ. 
Yea,  thou  hast  encouraged  us  to  come  boldly  to 
the  throne  of  grace,  that  we  may  obtain  mercy 
and  find  grace  to  help  in  time  of  need.     Lord  of 
power  and  love  !  I  come,  trusting  in  thy  almighty 
strength,  and  thy  infinite  goodness,  and  thy  gra- 
cious promise;  to  beg  from  thee  what  is  wanting 
in  myself;  even  that  grace  which  shall  help  me 
such  to  be,  and  so  to  do  as  thou  wouldst  have 
me.     O  my  God!  let  thy  grace  be  sufficient  for 
me,  and  ever  present  with  me;  and  let  thy  good 
Spirit  help  my  infirmities,   and  strengthen  me 
with  might  in  the  inner  man,  so  to  enable  me 
against  my  sins,  and  for  thy  service,  that  I  may 
be  strong  in  the  Lord,  and  in  the  power  of  his 
might;   and  do   all  things  as  I  ought,  through 
Christ  strengthening  me. 

O  thou  that  hast  showed  thyself  still  gracious- 
ly on  my  behalf,  and  brought  me  on  hitherto, 


For  Sincerity. 

never  cast  me  off,  I  beseech  thee,  nor  abandon 
me  over  to  myself,  who  am  a  reed  shaken  with 
the  wind,  a  leaf  driven  to  and  fro;  but  let  me 
still  experience  thy  help  at  hand,  and  my  God 
performing  all  things  for  me.  I  will  go  forth  in 
the  strength  of  the  Lord  God,  and  trust  in  the 
Lord  Jehovah,  in  whom  is  everlasting  strength 
O  my  Lord  !  come  unto  my  succour,  and  be  thou 
my  helper,  to  carry  me  on  beyond  my  own 
strength,  and  to  n»ake  all  that  I  think,  and  speak, 
and  do,  acceptable  in  thy  sight.  O  may  1  both 
put  forth  myself,  to  stir  up  the  grace  of  (Jod  that 
is  in  me;  and  also  find  such  fresh  supplies  of 
grace,  that  I  may  see  my  desires  accomplished, 
and  my  endeavours  brought  to  good  effect :  and 
so  rejoice  in  the  Lord  and  glory  in  thy  holy  name, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  strength  and  our  Re- 
deemer. Amen. 

A    Prayer  for  Sincerity. 

OMY  Lord,  the  only  wise  God,  whose  under- 
standing is  infinite,  and  from  whom  no 
thought  can  be  withholden  !  Thou  fillest  the 
whole  world  with  thy  presence,  and  hast  all 
things  ever  naked  and  open  before  thine  eyes. 
Thou  that  teachest  man  all  his  knowledge,  shalt 
not  thou  know?  O  Lord,  thou  searchest  the 
heart,  and  hast  even  the  the  secretest  of  our  sins 
in  the  light  of  thy  countenance;  and  thou  chief- 
ly callest  for  our  hearts,  and  requirest  truth  in 
the  inward  parts ;  and  wilt  bring  every  work 
into  judgment,  and  every  secret  thing,  whether 
good  or  evil.  My  God,  I  acknowledge  and  be- 
wail here  before  thee,  the  guilt  and  deceitfulness 
of  my  heart;  that  I  have  been  so  unmindful  of 
thy  all-seeing  eye,  ever  intent  upon  me;  and  that 


156  For  Sincerity* 

I  have  made  so  bold  with  thy  glorious  Majesty^ 
still  present  with  me.  For  which  I  confess,  O 
Lord,  thou  mightest  long  since  have  cut  me  oflfj 
and  appointed  me  my  portion  with  hypocrites. 
But  as  thou  hast  spared  me,  so  humble  me,  I  be- 
seech thee,  and  pardon  me,  for  all  such  hypocrisy, 
and  treacherous  dealing,  whereof  I  have  been 
guilty.  And  thou  that  speakest  to  the  heart,  and 
canst  order  it,  even  as  thou  wilt,  O  make  my 
heart  right  with  God,  and  without  any  allowed 
guile  in  thy  sight ;  so  found  in  thy  statutes,  that  I 
may  not  be  ashamed  ;  nor  be  found  wanting  of 
what  I  profess  myself  to  be,  when  thou  shalt  come 
to  take  an  account  of  me. 

O  let  thy  all-seeing  eye,  and  not  the  eye  of  the 
world  be  the  star  to  steer  my  course  by ;  and 
let  thy  blessed  favour,  more  than  the  liking  of  any 
sinful  men,  be  ever  my  study  and  delight.  Search 
me,  O  God,  and  try  me;  and  whatever  unpar- 
doned  guilt  or  unrepented  wickedness,  whatever 
unknown  error,  or  countenanced  lust  lies  in  my 
soul,  O  help  me  to  see  it,  and  of  thy  mercy,  de- 
liver me  from  it :  and  let  me  not  regard  iniquity 
in  my  heart :  let  no  presumptuous  sins  have  do- 
minion over  me.  Let  me  not  allow  myself  in  any 
way  of  wickedness,  nor  go  on  in  formality  and 
hypocrisy  to  serve  thee ;  but  walk  before  thee 
with  an  upright  heart,  and  do  all  sincerely  and 
heartily,  as  to  the  Lord  O  let  me  not  be  only 
almost,  but  altogether  a  Christian;  obeying  from 
the  heart  all  thy  w7ill  delivered  to  us,  to  be  done 
by  us;  and  not  so  much  concerned  to  seem  reli- 
gious and  good,  as  such  to  be  in  deed  and  in 
truth.  Make  me  willing  to  part  with  the  dearest 
sins,  and  to  perform  the  hardest  duties,  for  the 
sake  of  my  Lord;  who  parted  wilh  the  highest 


For  Humility.  157 

glory,  and  underwent  the  sorest  misery,  for  the 
sake  of  my  soul.  O  make  me  true  to  my  own 
convictions,  and  faithful  in  exerting  niy  own  en- 
deavours; yea,  make  me  ever  jealous  over  my 
heart,  and  conscientious  in  all  my  thoughts,  and 
words,  and  ways.  That  I  may  not  go  self-con- 
demned, for  walking  in  a  disguise,  and  only 
showing  to  be  what  I  am  not;  that  my  praise 
may  not  be  of  men,  but  of  God;  and  that  I  may 
have  continual  rejoicing  in  the  testimony  of  con- 
science, and  that  peace  of  God  which  passeth  all 
understanding.  O  my  Father,  who  seest  in 
secret!  let  the  pleasing  of  thy  holy  will,  and  the 
honouring  of  thy  blessed  name,  and  the  enjoying 
of  thy  gracious  favour,  be  the  great  end  which  I 
design  and  aim  at,  in  all  my  actions  and  under- 
takings ;  that  thou,  the  great  and  good  God, 
mayest  in  all  things  be  glorified  by  me,  through 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

•Jl    Prayer  for   Humility. 

O.MOST  High  God,  infinitely  glorious  above 
all  our  expressions,  or  our  thoughts  !  Thou 
sittest  on  the  circle  of  the  earth,  and  the  inhabit- 
ants thereof  are  as  grasshoppers :  yea,  before  thee, 
all  nations  are  as  nothing,  and  counted  to  thee 
less  than  nothing  and  vanity.  O  what  is  man  that 
thou  shouldest  be  so  mindful  of  him  !  yea,  that 
he  should  be  so  unmindful  of  his  own  vileness 
and  sinfulness,  to  exalt  and  lift  up  himself,  and 
to  swell  with  the  conceit  of  his  own  worth  and 
excellence!  I  desire,  O  Lord,  to  humble  myself, 
that  I  have  been  no  more  humble;  but  have 
thought  more  highly  of  myself  than  I  ought  to 
think:  and  vain-gloriously  set  off  myself  before 
men,  when.  I  deserve  only  to  be  despised,  and 


158  For  Humility. 

nothing  but  confusion  to  be  my  portion.  O  thou 
that  resisteth  the  proud  and  givest  grace  to  the 
humble,  give  me  the  grace  of  humility,  and  make 
me  mean  and  vile  in  my  own  eyes,  that  I  may  be 
accepted  in  thy  sight.  Make  me,  Lord,  of  the 
number  of  those  poor  in  spirit,  those  humble  and 
contrite  ones,  to  whom  thou  wilt  look,  and  with 
whom  thou  wilt  dwell. 

O  set  my  sins  in  order  before  me,  and  make  me 
to  know  my  transgressions,  that  I  may  not  flatter 
myself  in  my  own  eyes,  but  carry  it  as  becomes 
poor  sinful  dust  and  ashes,  who  deserve  to  be 
trodden  under  foot,  and  to  be  cast  out  as  the 
ofFscouring  of  all  things;  taking  nothing  but 
shame  to  myself,  and  giving  all  the  glory  to  thee, 
of  whatever  is  good  in  me.  Great  and  holy  God! 
make  me  more  studious  to  be  thy  favourite  than 
to  be  so  accounted;  and  better  pleased  to  do 
my  duty  than  to  hear  of  it:  neither  of  men  let  me 
seek  glory,  but  the  honour  that  comes  of  God 
only.  And  the  more  I  have  received  from  thee, 
the  more  let  me  ascribe  unto  thee;  and  not  be 
proudly  opinionated  of  myself;  but  give  all 
thanks  and  glory  to  thee  for  any  good  wherein 
thou  hast  made  me  to  differ ;  not  loving  or  intend- 
ing the  praise  of  men,  in  doing  the  work  of  God; 
but  performing  all  my  offices,  as  one  that  is  not 
only  called,  but  indeed,  thy  humble  servant. 

O  discover  me  so  to  myself,  that  I  may  still 
walk  humbly  with  my  God,  and  be  clothed  with 
humility:  consider  how  frail  I  am,  as  a  creature; 
and  how  vile,  as  a  sinner.  Let  me  ever  detest 
and  dread,  and  resist  the  pride  that  goes  before 
destruction;  and  so  humble  myself  under  thy 
mighty  hand,  that  thou  mayest  exalt  me  in  due 
time.  And  for  all  the  good  I  have  eyer  perform- 


For  Mindfulness  of  God 's  Presence  159 

ed  or  enjoyed,  not  unto  me,  O  Lord,  not  me,  but 
to  thy  name  be  all  the  praise  and  glory,  humblj 
and  heartily  acknowledged  and  rendered,  now 
and  for  evermore. 

Ji  Prayer  for  Mindfulness  of  GocTs  Presence. 

OLOKD,  the  infinite,  incomprehensible  God ! 
Thou  art  the  high  and  holy  One,  who  inha- 
bitest  eternity, and  dwellest  in  the  light  which  no 
man  can  approach  to.  And  from  thy  glorious 
throne  in  heaven  thou  lookest  down  upon  all  the 
inhabitants  of  the  earth;  and  hast  thy  eyes  in 
every  place,  and  ponderest  every  thing.  Though 
no  mortal  eye  can  see  thee ;  no  created  under- 
standing is  able  to  comprehend  thee;  yet  thou 
art  here,  and  every  where  present,  and  now  and 
evermore  thou  seest  us,  and  understandest  our 
very  thoughts  afar  off;  and  art  thoroughly  ac-- 
quainted  with  all  our  ways.  Yea,  thou  art  so 
universally  observant,  as  to  have  a  particular 
concern  for  every  person  and  action  in  the  world. 
Great  God,  thou  fillest  heaven  and  earth  with 
thy  presence,  O  fill  my  heart  with  thy  grace,  and 
the  rnindfulness  of  thy  presence  with  rne;  that  I 
may  set  the  Lord  always  before  me;  and  ever- 
more remember  thee  in  all  my  ways. 

O  that  ever  I  should  forget  God  that  made  me! 
the  God  who  quickens  every  thing  that  lives ;  con- 
curs with  every  thing  that  moves;  and  upholds 
every  thing  that  has  a  being  throughout  the  world ! 
O  that  I  should  live  so  much  without  thee  in  the 
world,  in  whom  I  ever  live,  and  move,  and  am! 
and  who  hast  still  been  with  me,  and  watchful 
for  good  over  me  all  my  days.  Holy  Godf 
because  I  have  regarded  thee  no  more,  thou 
mightest  make  me  sensible  of  thy  presence,  in 


1 60  For  Tenderness  of  Heart. 

judgments  worthy  of  thyself.  But  O  Lord,  in 
mercy  pardon  all  such  my  sinful  neglect  and  in- 
advertence. And  as  I  arn  ever  exposed  to  thy  all- 
seeing  eye,  so  make  me  ever  duly  aware  of  it 
And  let  the  remembrance  of  thy  presence  swaj 
and  guide  me,  in  secret  and  in  company,  at  all 
times,  in  all  places,  and  in  all  my  actions;  that  I 
may  demean  myself  as  ever  under  the  awful  eyes 
of  the  great  God  of  heaven  and  earth,  and  fear 
thee  above  all  other  powers;  love  thee  above  all 
other  Gods,  serve  thee  before  all  other  Lords,  and 
trust  in  thee  more  than  in  any  other  refuge.  Yeaf 
let  me  rejoice  under  the  shadow  of  thy  wings, 
and  herein  solace  myself,  that  thou  art  at  my  right 
hand,  and  ever  with  me.  O  let  not  the  remem- 
brance of  my  Lord  be  grievous  to  me;  but  let 
my  meditations  of  God  be  sweet,  as  well  as  fre- 
quent; that  delighting  myself  in  the  Lord,  thou 
mayest  give  unto  me  the  desires  of  my  heart ; 
and  so  gin  Je  me  with  thine  eye,  that  as  1  am  still 
manifest,  I  may  be  also  still  accepted  in  thy  bless- 
ed sight,  through  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

«/?  Prayer  for  Tenderness  of  Heart. 

ALMIGHTY  Lord,  the  God  of  all  grace,  who 
speakest  to  the  heart,  and  it  obeys  thee; 
and  when  it  is  grown  callous  and  hard,  canst 
make  it  soft  and  relenting;  and  give  sight  and 
sense  even  to  such  as  are  blind  and  past  feeling! 
O  show  the  power  of  thy  heavenly  grace,  in 
working  upon  this  stupid,  insensible  heart  of 
mine,  so  as  to  make  me  know,  both  the  evil  of 
my  sins,  and  the  things  of  my  peace.  And  be 
thou  pleased  to  give  me  such  a  sight  of  my  sinSf 
such  humiliation  of  souL  and  brokenness  of  heart, 
as  may  prepare  me  for  all  the  promised  mercies 


For  Tenderness  of  Heart.  161 

of  God  in  Jesus  Christ.  O  Father  of  mercies! 
punish  not  my  past  sins,  by  leaving  me  to  com- 
mit sin  with  greediness;  nor  ever  give  me  up  te 
such  blindness  of  mind,  arid  hardness  of  heart, 
as  shall  render  me  senseless  and  incorrigible. 
But  quicken  and  awake  my  dull  soul  into  a 
lively  sense  of  sin,  and  tenderness  of  con- 
science, and  due  apprehension  of  my  great  and 
eternal  concerns.  O  make  me  ever  jealous  over 
my  heart,  and  watchful  over  my  ways;  con- 
tinually fearing  to  offend,  and  endeavouring  to 
please  my  God  ;  keeping  my  heart  with  all  dili- 
gence, that  it  be  riot  hardened  through  the  de- 
ceitfulness  of  sin ;  and  keeping  at  that  distance 
which  thy  holy  word  -teaches  us  to  keep  from 
every  evil  and  accursed  thing  that  is  provoking 
in  thy  sight  and  destructive  to  my  soul. 

O  let  me  not  continue  in  sin,  that  grace  may 
abound ;  nor  kick  against  the  bowels  of  mercy, 
that  so  long  has  borne  with  me,  and  been  so 
abundantly  good  to  me;  but  give  me,  O  my 
God,  such  a  fulness  of  new  life  as  may  beget 
in  me  a  greater  quickness  of  spiritual  sense;  and 
make  my  conscience  quick  of  feeling,  even  aa 
the  apple  of  my  eye :  that  I  may  so  feel  my  sins, 
here,  as  to  prevent  my  feeling  of  them  forever, 
when  there  shall  be  no  remedy.  From  hardness 
of  heart,  and  contempt  of  thy  word  and  com- 
mandments,  good  Lord  deliver  trie.  And  give 
me  a  heart  so  soft  and  tender,  as  to  smite  and 
correct  me  for  every,  even  the  least,  sinful  evil: 
and  to  hold  me  back  not  only  from  gross  and 
scandalous  offences,  but  from  all  that  is  suspi- 
cious, or  that  has  a  tendency  to  sin  ;  from  the  oc- 
casions of  falling,  and  all  appearances  of  evils. 
O  let  me  so  observe  thee  with  child-like  tender- 
02 


362  For  the  Fear  of  God. 

ness,  and  awful  regard,  all  the  days  of  my  life, 
that  I  may  not  slavishly  dread  thee;  so  as  to  be 
consumed  with  terrors  in  the  great  day  of  thj 
wrath,  but  may  thfin  receive  the  blessed  portion 
of  thy  children,  who  lived  still  looking  and  pre- 
paring for  the  coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  the  Fear  of  God. 

OLORD,  the  great  and  dreadful  God,  in 
whose  hands  is  my  time;  at  whose  mercy 
is  my  soul,  and  all  that  concerns  me  both  now 
and  for  ever.  Thou,  even  thou,  art  to  be  feared; 
and  who  may  stand  in  thy  sight  when  once  thou 
art  angry!  The  fear  of  the  Lord  is  the  begin- 
ning of  wisdom ;  and  happy  is  the  man  that 
feareth  always !  But  to  harden  our  hearts 
against  thy  fear,  is  not  only  folly  and  impiety, 
but  madness  and  ruin.  I  am  afraid,  O  Lord,  be- 
cause I  have  feared  thee  no  more;  but  have  made 
so  bold  with  thy  glorious  Majesty,  and  with  thy 
holy  laws;  who  canst,  whenever  thou  pleasest, 
avenge  thee  of  thy  adversaries,  and  kill  and  cast 
sinners  into  hell,  that  I  have  been  so  fearless  in 
the  ways  of  sin,  where  I  should  not  have  dared  to 
be  seen,  and  so  timorous  in  the  cause  of  God, 
Inhere  I  should  not  have  feared  the  face  of  any 
man.  O  absolve  me,  I  beseech  thee,  good  Lord, 
from  all  such  guilt  that  lies  upon  me,  and  put  thy 
fear  into  my  heart,  that  I  may  never  experience 
what  a  fearful  thing  it  is  to  fall  into  thy  hands.  O 
incite  my  heart  to  fear  thy  name!  And  let  thy 
fear  be  ever  before  my  eyes,  to  restrain  me  from 
the  evil  of  my  ways.  O  let  me  so  stand  in  awe 
of  thee,  that  I  may  not  dare  to  provoke  thee. 
Let  me  not  be  so  much  afraid  of  any  man  that 


For  the  Fear  of  God.  165 

shall  die,  as  of  the  Almighty  ever-living  God; 
nor  so  fear  any  loss  or  suffering  than  can  but  take 
away  a  temporal  good,  as  1  fear  the  sin  and 
wickedness  that  would  deprive  me  of  the  good 
everlasting.  O  let  me  fear  the  Lord  and  depart 
from  evil;  and  have  my  God  in  such  regard,  that 
I  may  not  offer  wilfully  to  violate  thy  holy  laws, 
but  fear  to  dishonour  thy  name,  or  to  rebel  against 
thy  word,  or  to  rest  short  of  what  thou  requirest 
at  my  hand.  And  O  that  thy  fear  may  not  only 
keep  under  some  of  my  sins,  but  regulate  my 
whole  life,  and  sway  my  very  heart;  thajt  I  may 
do  thy  will  entirely  from  the  heart,  and  go  on  to 
perfect  holiness  in  the  fear  of  God. 

May  I  fear  thy  name,  and  not  blaspheme  it ; 
fear  thy  wrath,  and  not  provoke  it ;  fear  thy 
word,  and  not  dispise  it;  fear  thy  goodness,  and 
not  abuse  it;  fear  thy  omniscience,  and  not  make 
bold  with  secret  sins  ;  fear  thy  omnipotence,  and 
not  strive  with  my  Maker  in  any  case.  And  give 
me,  O  my  God,  the  right  mixture  of  fear  and 
faith,  to  keep  me  in  an  even  temper,  between 
presuming  and  despairing,  that  no  crosses  or 
evils  coming  upon  me,  may  ever  make  my  faith 
to  fail,  or  sink  me  down  into  such  consternations 
as  to  unfit  me  for  my  duty;  and  that  no  successes, 
and  fair  prospects  of  the  world's  good  before 
me,  may  harden  me  into  a  wretched  boldness 
with  thee,  nor  lift  me  up  into  wantonness  and 
stubbornness  against  thee ;  but  that  I  may  keep 
up  an  awful  regard  of  thy  glorious  Majesty,  and 
a  dutiful  respect  to  all  thy  holy  commands  ever- 
more. Amen. 


164  For  the  Love  of  God. 

Jl  Prayer  for  the  Love  of  God. 

OTHOU  infinite  goodness  and  love,  who  art 
most  sweet  and  amiable  in  thyself!  and 
most  full  of  invitation,  for  all  thy  own  glorious 
excellencies,  and  unspeakable  perfections ;  and 
also  for  thy  loving  kindness,  and  all  the  wronders 
of  thy  mercy  and  bounty  to  thy  creatures !  It  is 
the  riches  of  thy  grace  to  make  us  capable  of 
this  blessed  privilege,  to  love  thee ;  beyond 
which  the  highest  angels  know  no  greater  bliss ; 
yea,  thou  hast  not  only  given  us  capacities  for  it, 
but  the  greatest  obligations  to  engage  our  hearts 
to  it.  Yet,  after  all  the  reasons  and  motives 
which  we  have  to  love  our  God,  O  how  poor 
and  defective  has  been  my  love!  Yea,  in  what 
strangeness,  and  enmity  to  thee,  Lord,  have  I 
lived!  It  is  my  sin,  and  shame,  arid  misery,  to 
be  so  listless  and  backward  to  thy  love.  O  my 
God,  I  have  done  foolishly  and  wickedly,  in  for- 
saking the  fountain  of  living  waters,  to  hew  to 
myself  the  broken  cisterns,  that  can  hold  no 
water;  shutting  my  heart  against  the  love  of  my 
chiefest  good,  who  hast  still  been  doing  me 
good ;  and  laid  fresh  obligations  upon  me  with 
thy  renewed  fivours  every  day;  and  preferring 
any  trifles  and  vanities  of  this  present  time;  yea, 
and  the  satisfaction  of  my  own  foolish  and  hurt- 
ful lusts,  above  thee  and  thy  love,  which  is  bet- 
ter than  life. 

O  good  God,  be  thou  pleased  to  pardon  all  the 
defects  of  my  love  to  thee,  and  all  the  excesses 
of  my  love  to  earthly  things;  and.  turn  my  incli- 
nations and  affections  from  all  vain  objects  to 
thy  blessed  self,  who  art  the  worthiest  of  all  love. 
And,  to  conquer  all  my  prejudice,  and  for  ever 


For  the  Love  of  God.  165 

win  my  heart,  O  show  thyself  to  me  as  a  pardon- 
ing God;  lull  of  compassion,  ready  to  forgive  and 
willing  to  save  me.  Yea,  make,  me  to  know  so 
much  of  the  love  wherewith  thou  hast  loved  mef 
that  I  may  make  better  returns  of  love  to  the 
gracious  Giver  of  all  my  good.  Touch  my 
heart  with  such  a  powerful  sense  of  thy  loveli- 
ness and  thy  loving  kindness,  that  I  may  expe- 
rience stronger  desires  and  inclinations  after 
thee,  and  greater  complacence  and  delight  in 
thee,  and  may  love  all  other  things  in  compari- 
son of  my  best  and  dearest  Lord,  as  if  I  loved 
them  not. 

The  Lord  direct  my  heart  into  the  love  of 
God;  and  shed  abroad  and  increase  thy  love  in 
my  heart,  that  1  may  love  the  Lord  my  God  with 
all  my  heart  and  soul,  and  mind  and  might.  O 
disgrace  to  me  all  such  tempting  things  of  the 
world  as  would  draw  away  my  love  from  thyself; 
and  so  discover  thyself  to  my  soul,  as  may  take 
my  heart;  that  this  heart  of  mine  which  has  been, 
BO  cold  and  dull,  and  dead  to  thy  love,  may  feel 
its  mighty  warmth  and  power;  and  from  com- 
plaining of  the  want,  may  come  to  rejoice  in  the 
abundance  of  it.  O  my  life,  my  hope,  and  joy* 
that  hast  so  much  and  eternally  obliged  me] 
give  me  the  grace  and  the  power  to  love  thee; 
let  me  be  still  longing  to  appear  before  thee, 
and  delight  in  the  duties  that  bring  me  nigh  to 
thee,  and  that  help  me  to  communion  with  thee. 
Increase  my  love  to  thy  word,  and  to  all  the 
things  of  thy  Spirit  and  grace;  and  let  me  take 
more  satisfaction  and  pleasure  in  the  light  of  thy 
countenance  than  in  the  increase  of  corn  and  wine, 
and  all  the  most  desired  enjoyments  of  this  life, 
O  let  me  not  rest  in  the  gifts,  forgetting  the  boun- 


166  A  Prayer  for  Hope. 

tiful  Giver  of  every  good  thing,  but  draw  and  join 
my  heart,  dear  Lord,  still  nearer  to  thyself  uith 
the  cords  of  love.  And  together  with  all  my  en- 
joyments in  the  world,  O  let  me  enjoy  still  more 
of  thee,  my  God ;  in  the  enjoyment  of  whom  con- 
sists all  my  true  life,  and  peace,  and  happiness, 
here  and  for  ever.  Engage  to  thyself,  O  my  Lord, 
the  chief  and  choicest  affections  of  my  heart ; 
and  take  it,  the  willing  captive  of  thy  love:  and 
help  me  still  to  verify  my  love  of  God,  by  hating 
of  evil,  and  keeping  thy  commands,  and  delighting 
to  do  thy  will,  O  my  God.  Let  the  desire  of  my 
soul,  the  care  of  my  heart,  and  the  endeavour  of 
my  life,  be  to  observe  and  please  thee.  And  to 
secure  my  heart,  Lord,  to  thee,  that  I  may  not 
turn  away  from  thee,  but  may  be  rooted  and 
grounded  in  thy  love;  and  through  thy  good  help 
arid  grace,  may  keep  myself  in  the  love  of  God, 
looking  for  the  mercy  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
to  eternal  life.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  for  Hope. 

OLORD  God  of  hope,  the  blessed  founder 
of  all  our  great  and  glorious  expectations! 
thou  hast  promised  thy  people  such  bliss  and  glo- 
ry as  is  not  only  above  all  our  deserts  to  enjoy, 
but  above  all  our  very  thoughts  to  conceive.  Yet 
it  is  not  too  great  for  thy  Almighty  hand  and 
thy  boundless  love  to  give:  and  because  thou 
givest  so  like  thyself,  and  hast- made  prepara- 
tions for  thy  people,  answerable  to  thy  own  infi- 
nite greatness  and  goodness,  therefore  thou  art 
not  ashamed  to  be  called  their  God.  None  has 
seen,  or  can  tell,  or  think  the  things  which  thou, 
O  God,  hast  laid  up  for  them  that  love  thee.  But 
it  is  good  to  hope,  and  quietly  wait  for  the  salva- 


A  Prayer  for  Hope.  167 

tion  of  the  Lord.  Even  in  dark  days  and  perilous 
times,  that  make  us  know  adversity,  and  threaten 
us  still  with  more;  yet  patiently  to  wait  for 
what  we  hope,  till  he  that  hides  his  face  from  us 
cause  the  light  of  his  countenance  to  break  out 
upon  us. 

O  my  God  !  give  me  such  a  hope  as  may  lift 
up  my  head  and  strengthen  my  heart,  and  em- 
bolden my  spirit,  against  all  temptations  arid  dis- 
eouingements  of  the  present  time;  that  I  may 
never  yield  to  any  consternations,  so  as  to  de- 
stroy my  faith  and  hope,  and  unfit  me  for  my 
work  and  thy  service.  O  give  me  for  a  helmet 
the  hope  of  salvation;  that  hope  which  may  be 
as  the  anchor  of  my  soul,  sure  and  steadfast.  O 
let  me  hope  and  praise  thee  more  and  more ! 
and  rejoice  in  the  hope  that  leaveth  not  ashamed ; 
yea,  and  hold  fast  the  rejoicing  of  my  hope  firm 
to  the  end. 

And  though  I  am  sinful  and  unworthy,  yet  let 
me  hope  in  the  Lord,  with  whom  is  mercy,  and 
plenteous  redemption,  to  redeem  his  people  from 
all  their  iniquities.  O  gracious  God,  infinitely 
good  !  I  could  have  no  hope  but  in  (hy  tender 
mercies  in  thy  beloved  Son,  and  in  thy  faithful 
promises;  which  do  give  assurance  of  pardon 
and  acceptance  to  all  that  humbly  and  believingly 
apply  themselves  to  thee,  in  the  name  and  media- 
tion of  Jesus  Christ.  But  1  beseech  thee,  O  Lord, 
remember  thy  word  to  thy  servant,  upon  which 
thou  hast  caused  me  to  hope.  O  seal  me  with 
that  Holy  Spirit  of  promise,  which  is  the  earnest 
of  our  inheritance,  that  I  may  abound  in  hope, 
through  the  power  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  O  let 
Christ  in  me  be  rny  hope  of  glory :  and  having 
this  hope  in  me  help  me  to  purify  myself,  as  mj 


168  A  Prayer  for  Chanty. 

Lord  is  pure,  that  my  hopes  may  be  rational  and 
well-grounded  hopes,  to  see  and  enjoy  the  Lord, 
and  to  live  in  thy  kingdom  and  glory  most  blessed 
for  evermore.  Amen. 

Jl  Prayer  for  Charity. 

OMOST  gracious  and  merciful  Lord  our  God, 
who  art  very  goodness  and  love  itself;  thou 
hast  commanded,  that  he  who  loveth  thee  should 
love  his  brother  also !  yea,  that  we  should  lov«e 
our  neighbour  as  ourselves.  Father  of  mercies, 
forgive  me  all  my  sins  of  uncharitableness;  and 
give  me  a  heart  to  abound  with  loving  kindness 
to  all  the  partakers  of  my  nature,  that  are  the 
work  of  thy  hands,  and  sharers  in  my  hope.  Let 
me  not  despise  any  for  their  low  estate,  nor  hate 
any  for  their  abusive  carriage,  nor  cast  off  any  as 
reprobate,  for  their  scandalous  wickedness  ;  but 
be  kindly  affectioned  unto  all;  desirous  of  their 
holiness  and  happiness,  and  contributing  what  lies 
in  me  to  promote  it;  showing  the  mercy  which 
thou  knowest  I  need ;  and  forgiving  others  as  I 
myself  desire  to  be  forgiven;  yea,  ready  to  dis- 
tribute and  willing  to  communicate.  And  as  I 
would  be  glad  to  find  favour  and  receive  supply 
of  my  own  wants,  give  me,  O  gracious  God,  a 
large  heart,  and  according  to  my  ability,  an  open 
hand,  that  I  may  give  cheerfully,  and  sow  plen- 
tifully while  I  have  time,  doing  good  unto  all 
men,  especially  to  them  that  are  of  the  household 
of  faith;  yea,  loving  the  opportunities  of  such 
well  doing;  and  blessing  thy  name,  who  hast  so 
blest  and  enabled  me;  and  refreshing  my  own 
bowels,  in  making  the  loins  of  the  poor  to  bless 
me. 

And,  O  that  we  may  all  approve  ourselves  the 


A  Prayer  for  Unity.  169 

disciples  of  our  Lord,  by  the  love  we  have  one 
for  another;  and  show  that  we  are  passed  from 
death  to  life,  because  we  love  the  brethren  and 
bear  the  greatest  kinclpess  to  the  children  of  God; 
ever  esteeming  and  "respecting  them  above  all; 
and. tendering  such  as  nearest  and  dearest  to  us 
that  are  so  to  thy  blessed  self.  O  let  our  love  be 
without  dissimulation  ;  not  only  in  word  and  m 
tongue,  but  in  deed  and  in  truth ;  loving  one  ano- 
ther with  a  pure  heart,  fervently ;  loving  even  the 
worst,  so  as  to  wish  them  well,  and  seek  their  good: 
and  having  our  delight  in  the  saints  that  are  in  the 
earth,  and  the  righteous  that  are  more  excellent 
than  their  neighbours!  loving. them  for  thy  holy 
image  and  Spirit  appearing  hi  them  !  and  setting 
our  hearts  upon  them,  because  thou  art  with  them, 
and  hast  a  peculiar  favour  to  them,  arid  with  an 
everlasting  love  hast  loved  them.  O  Lord  jof 
love,  keep  me  from  censoriousness,  and  rash  judg- 
ing of  any;  that  I  may  think  and  hope  the  best 
of  all,  which  their  case  will  admit:  and  love  eve- 
ry one.  for  his  sake  who  has  showed  the  greatest 
love  to  us  all,  even  our  dearest  Lord,  and  only 
Saviour,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  for   Unity. 

OGOD  of  the  spirits  of  all  flesh,  who  hast 
made  of  one  blood  all  nations  of  men,  to 
dwell  on  the  face  of  the  whole  earth  !  wilt  thou 
make  us  to  agree  in  mind  and  affection  as  we  do 
in  nature  and  constitution,  and  give  to  all  nations 
unity,  peace  and  concord.  And  as  thou  hast 
called  the  faithful,  all  throughout  the  world,  into 
one  body,  so  make  the  muliitude  of  believers,  as 
once  they  were,  of  one  heart,  and  of  one  soul.  O 

let  not  the  seamless  coat  of  Christ  be  torn  in 

p 


170  A  Prayer  for  Unity. 

pieces;  nor  thy  church  be  rent  into  schisms 
and  contending  parties,  fierce  and  bitter  against 
one  another;  but  make  us  one  fold  and  unani- 
mous dock  under  Jesus  Christ,  the  great  Shep- 
herd and  Bishop  of  our  souls.  O  put  a  healing 
plaster  on  our  bleeding  wounds;  and  let  not 
those  invidious  names  of  sides,  and  parties  that 
exasperate,  be  kept  up,  to  give  distaste  and  pre- 
judice; but  take  away  from  the  midst  of  us  that 
perverse  spirit,  which  makes  us  a  nation  void  of 
counsel ;  and  not  understanding  the  things  of  our 
peace;  but  dashing  ourselves  one  against  ano- 
ther. O  God  of  peace  !  dispose  our  hearts  to  hear- 
ken to  all  peaceable  counsels,  and  to  comply  with 
all  healing  designs.  And  to  allay  the  heats  which 
our  dissentions  have  raised,  that  amidst  the  va- 
riety of  apprehensions,  we  may  yet  keep  the 
unity  of  the  Spirit  in  the  bond  of  peace;  and 
evidence  our  relation  to  the  Prince  of  Peace,  by 
following  after  those  things  that  make  for  peace. 
O  Lord,  rebuke  the  storms  of  our  animosi- 
ties and  debates;  and  say  to  those  winds  and 
waves,  peace,  be  still,  and  they  will  obey  thee. 
O  wilt  thou  heal  our  breaches,  and  give  us  first 
the  true  peace  with  God,  as  the  foundation  for  a 
firm  and  lasting  peace  with  one  another.  O  that 
the  uniting  Spirit  of  Christ  Jesus  may  so  far  pre- 
vail upon  us,  as  to  draw  and  knit  us  together  in 
the  blessed  communion  of  thy  saints;  that  we 
may  with  combined  wills  and  interest,  as  one 
man,  put  forth  ourselves  to  advance  the  glory  of 
thy  name,  the  public  good,  and  the  common  sal- 
vation of  all  our  souls,  through  thy  rich  mercy  to 
us  in  our  blessed  Peace  Maker,  Jesus  Christ. 


A  Prayer  for  Meekness,  Sfc.  171 

jl  Prayer  for  Meekness  and  Peaceableness. 

O  ALMIGHTY  God,  who  alone  canst  order 
the  unruly  wills  and  affections  of  sinful  men ! 
wilt  thou  be  pleased  to  regulate  my  exorbitant 
passions,  and  suppress  in  me  that  pride  from 
whence  cometh  contention ;  and  beat  down  every 
rebellious  motion  that  exalts  itself  against  peace 
and  patience,  and  gentleness  and  meekness  of 
Spirit!  O  help  me  to  put  away  all  bitterness  and 
wrath,  and  anger,  and  clamour,  and  evil  speak- 
ing, with  all  malice.  And  however  I  am  tempt- 
ed and  provoked,  O  that  I  may  possess  my  soul  in 
patience;  and  ndt  be  overcome  with  evil,  but 
overcome  evil  with  good:  and  enable  us,  O  God 
of  patience,  to  bear  one  another's  burdens,  and 
to  forbear  one  another  in  love,  that  we  may  not 
contend  but  for  the  faith  of  Christ ;  nor  strive  but 
to  enter  in  at  the  strait  gate ;  nor  provoke  one 
another,  but  unto  love  and  good  works. 

O  if  thou  the  great  God  shouldst  enter  into 
judgment  with  me,  and  break  out  in  fury  upon 
me,  as  I  have  been  ready  to  take  fire  at  affronts, 
and  to  fall  with  rage  upon  my  antagonists,  Lordf 
how  soon  should  I  be  consumed,  and  sink  under 
the  saddest  misery,  past  recovery  !  O  may  I 
ever  dread  to  be  rigid  and  cruel,  who  know  the 
extreme  need  that  I  have  of  mercy!  And  thou 
(he  God  of  peace  and  love,  forgive  me,  I  beseech 
thee,  all  the  sins  that  ever  I  have  committed 
against  peace  and  love.  O  let  the  peace  of  God 
rule  in  my  heart;  and  thy  wronderful  long-suffer- 
•ing  of  me  be  ever  an  engagement  upon  me  to 
show  all  meekness  to  all  men;  and  bear  the  ig- 
norance and  weakness,  the  follies  and  mistakes, 
the  wrongs  and  indignities  of  ray  fellow  crea- 


172  A  Prayer 

tures;  seeing  I  myself  am  undone,  without  the 
forbearance  of  God,  and  having  nothing  to  hope 
for,  and  to  comfort  myself  in,  but  the  finding  of 
such  favour  at  thy  hands 

O  teach  and  help  us  all  to  live  in  peace,  and 
to  love  in  truth ;  follow  peace  with  all  men,  and 
walking  in  love  as  Christ  loved  us,  that  we  may 
be  united  and  knit  together  as  fellow  members 
of  the  same  body,  whereof  he  is  the  glorious  head; 
who,  though  extremely  wronged  and  provoked,  yet 
did  not  cry,  nor  lift  up,  nor  cause  his  voice  to  be 
heard  in  the  streets.  Of  whom  let  me  learn  such 
meekness  and  lowliness  of  heart,  that  in  him  I 
may  find  rest  for  my  soul.  O  my  God!  suppress 
all  bitter  resentments  in  my  mind  ;  and  let  the 
law  of  kindness  be  in  my  tongue,  and  a  meek  and 
quiet  spirit  showing  itself  in  all  the  conduct  of 
my  life.  And,  Lord,  make  us  all  so  gentle  and 
peaceable,  and  easy  to  be  entreated,  and  hard  to 
be  provoked,  that  we  may  be  followers  ot  God, 
as  dear  children ;  and  that  thou,  the  God  of 
peace,  rnayest  be  with  us,  and  delight  to  dwell 
among  us,  and  rejoice  over  us,  to  do  us  good  for 
thy  mercy's  sake,  in  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

Jl  Praytr  under  Jlbuses  and  Provocations. 

OMOST  high  and  wise,  holy  and  righteous 
Judge  of  all  the  earth,  the  great  Author 
and  lover  of  peace  and  truth!  thou  knowest  my 
foolishness,  and  my  sins  are  not  hid  from  thee.— 
How  far  I  have  been  accessary  to  pull  down 
these  troubles  and  mischiefs  upon  my  own  head; 
and  how  much  worse  than  any  of  these  I  deserve 
at  thy  hands,  is  all  naked  and  open  to  thine 
eyes.  I  submit,  Lord,  to  thy  correction,  who  dost 
often  use  such  instruments  of  thy  displeasure. 


wider  Abuses  and  Provocations.  173 

And  O  that  the  ill-\vill  of  men  may  quicken  me 
the  more  to  examine  myself  for  that  which  is  of- 
fensive in  thy  sight;  and  make  me  more  careful 
to  have  my  heart  right  with  God;  and  to  ingra- 
tiate myself  with  heaven:  which  will  more  than 
recompense  for  the  loss  of  any  one's  favour  in 
the  world. 

But  seeing  my  heart  condemns  me  not  in  the 
present  case,  for  being  the  cause  of  all  (his  w  rath 
and  clamour,  and  malice  and  vengeance ;  and  here- 
in I  apprehend  myself  now  to  suffer  wrongful- 
ly, being  slanderously  reported,  falsely  accused, 
shamefully  and  despitefully  used,  and  hated  with- 
out a  cause;  I  take  the  boldness  to  pour  out  my 
complaint  before  thee,  O  God,  and  to  shelter 
myself  under  the  shadow  of  thy  wings.  Plead  my 
cause,  O  Lord,  with  them  that  strive  with  me ; 
and  save  me  from  those  that  rise  up  against  me. 
Though  for  my  love,  they  are  my  adversaries, 
let  me  give  myself  to  prayer;  and  not  avenge 
myself,  but  give  place  unto  wrath,  and  commit 
my  cause  to  thee  that  judgeth  righteously.  O 
convince  my  adversaries  of  the  error  they  are  in; 
and  turn  them  from  the  ill-way  they  aro  upon: 
and  the  remainder  of  their  wrath,  O  do  thou  re- 
strain, and  here  make  me  a  way  to  escape,  as 
thou  hast  so  often  been  my  help. 

I  confess,  O  Lord,  thou  mightest  justly  use  them 
that  provoke  me,  as  thy  scourge  to  chastise  me, 
for  provoking  thee;  and  I  know  not  but  such  may 
now  be  thy  pleasure.  O  help  me  then  patiently 
to  bear  the  indignation  of  the  Lord;  because  I 
have  so  greatly  sinned  against  thee;  and  how- 
ever I  am  pursued  and  struck  at,  O  let  me  not 
render  evil  for  evil,  nor  railing  for  railing,  but 
contrariwise,  blessing;  considering  him  that  en- 

P  2 


174  A  Prayer  under  Abuses,  fyc. 

dured  so  great  contradiction  of  sinners  against 
himself,  that  I  be  not  wearied  and  faint  in  my 
mind.  If  the  man  after  thy  own  heart  had  so 
many  bitter  implacable  enemies,  that  not  only 
traduced  his  name,  but  sought  his  life;  if  thy  holy 
apostle  was  called  a  babbler  and  troubler  of  the 
world,  and  a  pestilent  fellow,  not  tit  to  live;  yea, 
if  the  Son  of  thy  eternal  love  had  the  report  of  a 
wine-bibber,  a  friend  of  publicans  and  sinners,  a 
deceiver  of  the  people,  and  a  dealer  with  the 
devil;  if  he  that  deserved  so  well  of  men,  fared 
so  ill  at  their  hands;  if  he  that  did  no  sin  was 
persecuted,  as  if  he  had  been  the  chief  of  sinners; 
if  he  suffered  so  much  evil,  who  never  deserved 
any,O  why  should  such  an  unworthy  sinful  wretch 
as  I,  to  whom  belongs  confusion  of  face,  and  the 
worst  punishment,  so  heinously  resent  it  as  insuf- 
ferable, to  be  set  at  nought,  and  but  to  endure 
the  correction  of  my  own  wickedness;  though  I 
deserve  it  not  from  them,  yet,  how  much  worse 
do  I  deserve  from  thy  heavenly  Majesty,  offend- 
ed by  my  sins,  who  mayest  justly  pay  me  by  their 
hands.  Let  men  then  say,  or  do  what  they  can 
against  jmej-O  lefc  me  be  as  a  deaf  man  that  hear- 
eth  not,  and  as  a  dumb  man  that  opens  not  his 
mouth;  little  regarding  the  anger  of  man,  if  I 
can  but  be  happy  in  the  favour  of  my  God.  O 
Lord  keep  back  thy  servant  from  giving  any  just 
provocation;  and  let  me  not  suffer  as  an  evil 
doer ;  nor  let  the  wo  be  to  me,  because  offence 
cometh  by  me;  and  then  when  persecuted  for 
righteousness'  sake,  I  shall  rejoice  and  bless  thy 
name,  and  give  thee  thanks  and  praise  for  all  thy 
grace  and  goodness  to  me,  in  Jesus  Christ 
Amen. 


A  Prayer  under  Infamy^  Sfc.  1 76 

A  Prayer  under  Infamy  and  Disgrace. 

OLORD!  righteousness  belongs  to  thee;  but 
to  rne  confusion  of  face,  as  it  is  this  day. — 
Shame  is  the  portion  of  my  sins  ;  and  I  deserve  no 
better  than  to  he  slighted  and  despised  myself, 
who  have  so  slighted  thy  laws,  and  despised  the 
glorious  Majesty  of  heaven.  If  I  had  been  inno- 
cent, I  might  have  been  confident  to  lift  up  my 
face  \\ilhoutspot;  but  wo  is  me  that  I  have  sinned, 
to  make  myself  vile,  and  fit  only  to  be  trampled 
on.  As  for  as  I  am  obnoxious  and  guilty,  I  take 
shame  to  myself  as  the  reward  of  my  folly  and  wick- 
edness. And  O  that  I  may  so  feel  it  here,  that  I 
may  not  hereafter  awake  to  shame  and  everlast- 
ing contempt.  And  let  not  any  that  wait  on  thee, 
O  Lord  God  of  hosts,  be  ashamed  for  my  sake: 
yea,  where  I  suffer  wrongfully,  yet  Lord  help  me 
to  take  it  patiently.  Though  1  am  reproached 
for  the  name  of  Christ,  and  persecuted  for  righte- 
ousness' sake,  let  me  not  d  roop  under  the  censures 
and  scorns  of  men,  if  I  can  but  find  acceptance 
and  favour  in  thy  sight.  Seeing  it  is  not  men's 
applause  or  reproach,  that  can  make  us  happy 
or  miserable,  though  we  have  their  good  opinion 
and  commendation,  we  are  never  the  better  when 
out  with  heaven  :  and  though  we  have  lost  our- 
selves with  them,  we  are  never  the  worse  when 
we  approve  ourselves  to  Him  that  searcheth  our 
hearts. — Thy  word,  O  Lord,  gives  us  encourage- 
ment, sufferingasChristians.that  we  shouldnot  be 
ashamed,  but  glorify  thee  on  this  behalf.  Arid 
thy  apostlos  who  were  made  as  the  filth  of  the 
world:  and  the  offscouring  of  all  things,  rejoiced 
that  they  were  counted  worthy  to  suffer  shame 
for  the  name  of  Jesus.  Though  I  pass  through 


176  <A  Prayer  for  our  Enemies. 

evil  report  as  well  as  good;  O  what  a  small  thing 
it  is  to  be  judged  of  man's  judgment!  And  if 
thou,  my  God,  wilt  have  me  to  be  low  in  the 
world,  yea,  even  a  hissing  and  proverb  of  re- 
proach, let  me  bear  thy  indignation,  arid  submit 
to  thy  correction ;  not  so  much  concerned  for  the 
disgrace,  as  to  remove  the  cause;  and  be  more 
careful  and  diligent  to  please  the  Lord,  and  to 
seek  the  honour  that  is  of  God. 

If  men  speak  evil  of  what  they  understand  not, 
and  perverse  scpflTers,  walking  after  their  own 
lusts,  oppose  and  deride  me,  contradicting  and 
blaspheming  thy  truths,  O  let  not  thy  holy  reli- 
gion ever  sink  in  my  thoughts  for  any  of  their  hard 
speeches,  or  coarse  usage ;  but  looking  unto  Jesus, 
the  Sun  of  righteousness,  that  once  lay  under 
clouds,  the  Lord  of  glory,  who  bore  such  re- 
proach and  infamy,  who  heard  ill  from  the  world 
though  he  never  did  evil  in  his  life ;  and  was 
despised  and  rejected  of  men-,  though  he  deserv- 
ed so  much  better  than  ever  any  did  from  them; 
let  me  little  regard  what  names  they  call  any  of 
his  household,  who  can  call  the  master  of  the  house 
as  bad.  But  may  1  still  follow  my  blessed  Saviour, 
in  meekness  and  patience;  having  my  eyes  and 
dependence  upon  the  great  Author  arid  Finisher 
of  our  faith  ;  who  first  despising,  and  then  sur- 
mounting the  shame,  art  now  set  down  at  the  right 
hand  of  the  Majesty  on  high ;  and  from  thence 
shall  come  in  great  glory  to  judge  the  world  ; 
whose  name  be  ever  blessed,  world  without  end. 
Amen. 


o 


Jl  Prayer  for  our  Enemies. 
LORD  of  love,  the  Prince  of  peace,  thou 
hast   told  us,  that  thou  earnest  to  send  a 


A  Prayer  for  our  Enemies.  177 

sword  and  fire  upon  earth;  and  that  it  must  needs 
be,  that  offences  come.  Even  the  best  of  men,  in 
passing  through  this  tumultuous  world  are  often 
jostled  and  evil  entreated.  And  if  it  be  the  lot 
of  thy  own  holy  followers  to  have  hatred  and 
tribulation  in  the  world,  O  what  am  I,  vile  sinner, 
that  I  should  look  to  be  exempted  from  this  com- 
mon portion !  Such  as  I  have  made  my  enemies, 
by  my  folly  and  miscarriage,  Lord,  incline  and 
enable  me  to  appease  and  gain  them  ;  and  so  di- 
rect my  ways  to  please  thee,  that  thou  mayest 
make  them  be  at  peace  with  me.  And  such  as 
are  my  enemies  wrongfully,  Lord  lay  not  this  sin 
to  their  charge,  but  forgive  them,  and  open  their 
eyes,  and  pacify  their  minds,  and  turn  their 
hearts,  that  they  may  see  their  error,  and  first  be 
reconciled  unto  God,  and  then  live  with  their 
brethren,  in  unity  and  godly  love;  and  that,  at 
last,  I  may  meet  them  in  the  arms  of  Jesus  Christ : 
and  those  that  will  not  cease  from  hating,  Lord 
prevent  them  from  hurting  me;  or,  though  they 
do  me  hurt,  let  me  endeavour  to  do  them  good; 
and  not  hate  but  love  my  enemies,  for  thy  sake 
who  hast  commanded  us  to  love  them;  and  who 
didst  express  the  highest  love  to  us  in  dying  for 
us,  even  when  we  were  thy  enemies.  Let  me 
consider  them  as  thy  rod,  and  the  staff  of  thy  in- 
dignation, in  all  that  I  suffer  from  them,  that  in- 
stead of  striving  to  avenge  myself,  I  may  submit 
to  thy  hand. 

O,  good  Lord  !  mortify  in  all  of  us  the  carnal 
mind,  that  is  enmity  against  God,  and  those  lusts 
that  war  in  our  members,  from  whence  come  wars 
arid  fightings  amongst  us.  Turn  all  our  enmity 
agninst  the  common  enemies  of  our  souls;  and  join 
all  our  hearts  to  thee,  in  thy  true  fear  and  love, 


178  A  Prayer  under  Crosses,  &fc. 

and  that  we  may  not  meditate  revenge,  but  study 
to  he  quiet;  nor  foment  and  pursue  our  quarrels, 
but  follow  after  the  things  that  make  for  peace; 
and  with  one  mind,  and  with  one  mouth,  glorify 
our  God,  through  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  under  Crosses  and  Disappointments  in  our 
Affairs. 

OMY  Lord  !  I  live  by  thee,  and  do  continual- 
ly depend  upon  thee,  for  life  and  breath  and 
all  things.  Thy  providence  has  appointed  my  sta- 
tions, and  disposes  whatever  concerns  me  in  the 
world:  if  not  so  much  as  a  sparrow  falls  on  the 
ground  without  thee,  and  the  very  hairs  of  our 
head  are  all  numbered,  thou  canst  not  be  un- 
concerned in  the  changes  arid  accidents  that 
befall  thy  servants ;  and  whatever  instruments 
and  occasions  have  been  in  the  way,  it  is  thy 
pleasure,  that  so  it  should  be  with  me  as  it  is. 
Restrain  me,  therefore,  O  Lord,  from  fretting  my- 
self to  do  evil.  And  help  me  to  take  up  my  cross, 
and  follow  my  meek  and  lowly  Saviour,  in  self 
denial  and  quiet  submission  to  the  will  of  my 
heavenly  Father. 

O,  who  am  I,  sinful  wretch,  who  have  so  much 
displeased  thee,  that  I  should  never  be  crossed, 
nor  have  any  thing  to  trouble  me  !  Thy  will  be 
done,  O  Lord,  how  much  soever  it  goes  against 
flesh  and  blood.  And  let  me  ever  design  thy  glo- 
ry, and  endeavour  to  conform  to  thy  pleasure, 
whether  it  make  for  or  against  me  in  any  respects 
of  this  life.  O  that  I  may  learn  obedience,  by  the 
things  which  I  suffer;  that  I  may  not  be  worse, 
but  better  in  my  spiritual  concerns,  for  these  rubs 
and  disappointments  in  matters  of  the  world. 
And  O  that  the  adverse  things  which  interrupt 


A  Prayer  under  Losses,  SfC.  179 

and  trouble  me  in  my  designs  and  enterprises 
here,  may  turn  all  to  the  glory  of  thy  name,  and 
to  the  furtherance  of  my  comfortable  accounts  in 
the  hour  of  death,  and  in  the  great  day  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  under  Losses  and  Damage  in  our  Goods 
and  Estate. 


leaven  a  better  and  an  enduring  substance. 


180          Ji  Prayer  under  Confinement,  &rc. 

to  lay  up  my  treasure  in  heaven ;  when  I  see 
how  little  any  thing  is  to  be  confided  in  here  on 
earth.  O  let  me  look  less  upon  these  temporal 
things  that  are  seen;  and  be  mostof  all  concerned 
that  I  lose  not  the  blessed  things  eternal,  but 
provide  so  well  for  my  soul,  and  be  so  rich  to- 
wards God,  that  when  all  here  shall  fail  me,thou 
mayest  never  fail  me,  but  be  the  strength  of  my 
heart,  arid  my  portion  for  evermore.  Jlmen. 

Jl  Prayer  under  Confinement  and  Loss  of  Liberty. 

OLORD  my  God,  infinitely  kind  and  good  ! 
I  have  through  thy  gracious  indulgence 
long  enjoyed  my  freedom  in  the  world  ;  and  been 
permitted  to  go  in  and  out,  whither  I  would,  at 
my  pleasure;  but  now  that  I  am  under  restraint, 
and  confined  to  this  place,  O  how  much  sorer 
affliction  ought  I  with  patience  to  endure  for 
turning  my  liberty  into  licentiousness,  and  flying 
out,  as  I  have  done,  into  wild  excesses  and  dis- 
orders, to  wander  from  thee  and  weary  myself 
in  the  ways  of  wickedness!  This  confinement  I 
acknowledge  to  be  but  the  easy  correction  of 
my  extravagance,  who  deserve  to  be  shut  up  in 
the  eternal  prison  from  whence  there  is  no  re- 
demption ;  but  for  thy  dear  Son.  my  blessed  Sa- 
viour's sake,  I  beg,  Lord,  that  this  restraint  may 
not  be  in  judgment  but  in  mercy  to  me,  that  it 
may  bring  me  to  the  consideration  and  repent- 
ance of  all  those  vicious  liberties  which  I'have 
taken,  to  live  after  my  own  foolish  and  hurtful 
lusts ;  and  that  it  may  remove  me  out  of  the  way 
of  such  temptations  and  opportunities  of  sinning 
against  thee,  and  engage  me  more  closely  and 
dutifully  to  attend  upon  thee,  that  in  thy  service 
I  may  find  a  better  freedom  than  the  freedom  I 


A  Prayer  under  Confinement,  &fc.  181 

-which  I  have  lost ;  having  free  access  into  thy 
presence  and  boldness  at  the  throne  of  grace, 
and  deliverance  from  the  bondage  of  my  sins, 
and  power  to  tread  down  the  enemies  of  my 
soul,  and  to  bring  them  under,  that  have  reigned 
over  me. 

O  that  I  may  now  be  crucified  to  the  world, 
as  well  as  sequestered  from  it,  that  I  may  not  be 
turned  off  with  regret  and  a  heavy  heart,  but 
may  leave  it  in  affection,  as  I  am  now  shut  out 
from  its  conversation ;  that  I  may  in  heart  and 
mind  ascend  and  dwell  above,  arid  have  my  con- 
versation in  heaven,  and  such  fellowship  with 
thee,  my  God  and  Saviour,  which  I  may  infinitely 
prefer  above  all  the  society  and  enjoyments  of 
the  world.  If  the  Son  of  God  shall  make  me  free, 
I  shall  be  free  indeed.  O  bring  my  soul  out  of 
prison,  the  horrible  pit  of  my  sins  and  fears,  that 
I  may  not  there  be  kept  in  durance  to  the  judg- 
ment of  the  great  day;  and  I  will  then  praise  thy 
name,  let  my  body  be  shut  up  in  ever  so  narrow 
a  compass.  O  set  my  feet  in  such  a  large  room, 
my  affections  at  liberty  to  enjoy  thy  infinite  Self, 
and  to  expatiate  in  thy  heavenly  kingdom,  that  is 
boundless  and  everlasting ;  and  make  me  a  fel- 
low-citizen with  the  saints,  and  of  the  household 
of  God  ;  and  then,  though  I  lie  in  a  jail,  and  in  a 
grave,  yet  I  shall  be  a  prisoner  of  hope,  looking 
for  that  blessed  hope,  to  be  delivered  from  the 
bondage  of  corruption,  into  the  glorious  liberties 
of  the  children  of  God;  even  for  his  sake,  who, 
for  ours,  was  apprehended  and  confined,  and  put 
to  death,  and  laid  in  the  grave,  and  now  liveth 
and  reigncth  with  thy  eternal  Self,  and  Holy 
Spirit,  over  all,  God  blessed  for  evermore.  Amen 

Q 


182         Jl  Prayer  under  sad  Accidents,  Sfc. 

A  Prayer  under  sad  Accidents  and  Disasters  fatting 
on  the  Body. 

OLORD,  Most  High !  the  all-disposing  God ! 
thou  hast  taught  us,  that  affliction  rises  not 
out  of  the  dust,  nor  comes  by  chance,  without  thy 
appointment ;  but  is  the  messenger  despatched  on 
thy  errands,  who  hast  an  overruling  hand  in  all 
the  disasters  that  befall  us,  whatever  else  be  the 
occasion  of  our  hurts :  and  still  thou  hast  good 
reason  to  do  as  thou  dost,  though  the  reason 
may  be  hid  from  us.  I  know,  O  Lord,  that  thy 
judgments  are  right,  and  that  thou  in  faithfulness 
hast  afflicted  me.  O  why  should  a  living  man 
complain,  a  man  for  the  punishment  of  his  sins? 
Great  God !  I  humbly  submit  to  thy  hand,  and 
will  bear  the  effects  of  thy  displeasure,  which  I 
have  pulled  down  upon  myself.  O  my  Lord,  give 
me  patience,  and  strength,  and  grace  proportion- 
able to  this  great  trial;  and  enable  me  so  to  de- 
mean myself  under  it,  that  after  the  affliction  I 
may  find  cause  to  say,  it  was  good  for  me  to  be 
afflicted.  Thou  that  hast  torn  and  smitten,  thou 
alone  art  able  to  heal,  and  bind  up  my  breaches  t 
O  wilt  thou  remember  me  in  my  low  estate, 
out  of  that  mercy  of  thine  which  endurest  for 
ever  ;  and  help  me  to  find  out  the  cursed  things 
that  have  provoked  thee  so  to  stretch  out  thy 
hand  upon  me.  O  that  I  may  search  and  try  my 
ways  and  turn  to  the  Lord,  and  bring  forth  fruits 
meet  for  repentance;  and  for  his  sake  who  was 
wounded  for  our  transgressions,  and  bruised  for 
our  iniquities,  Lord  forgive,  and  heal  my  soul 
that  has  sinned  against  thee;  and  in  good  time, 
repair  the  breaches  made  upon  my  body  too,  if  it 
seem  good  in  thy  sight,  and  make  me  to  hear  joy 


A  Prayer  for  a  bKnd  Man.  183 

and  gladness,  that  the  bones   which  thou  hast 
broken  may  rejoice. 

If  thou  wilt,  Lord,  thou  canst  make  me  whole. 
O  may  it  be  thy  gracious  pleasure  to  work  so 
wonderfully  for  me,  and  glorify  thy  power  and 
mercy  in  my  help  and  recovery ;  or  however  thou 
shalt  dispose  of  this  vile  body,  grant  me,  O  my 
God,  an  humble  resignation  to  thy  will,  and  sa- 
tisfaction with  thy  dealings,  and  make  this  sad 
dispensation,  which  is  so  grievous  for  the  time, 
gracious  in  the  issue.  O  make  it  the  messenger 
of  thy  love  to  my  soul,  and  the  means  of  convert- 
ing and  sanctifying  it,  and  preparing  it  for  the 
Lord,  and  fitting  it  to  receive  all  the  saving  mer- 
cies of  God,  in  Jesus  Christ  jimen. 

A  Prayer  for  a  Blind  Man. 

OLORD  our  God !  thou  art  light,  and  in  thec 
is  no  darkness  at  all ;  thou  hast  created  the 
light  and  the  sun,  and  givest  both  the  power  of 
seeing  and  objects  to  be  seen :  it  is  a  pleasant 
thing  to  behold  the  light;  but  of  that  sweet 
benefit  thou  hast  thought  fit  to  deprive  thy  ser- 
vant. O  blessed  be  thy  name,  even  taking  away 
as  well  as  giving,  for  thou  art  wise  and  just,  and 
good  in  all;  every  thing  that  happens  to  us  is  of 
thy  appointment,  Lord  of  all,  who  hast  made  us, 
and  mayest  do  what  thou  wilt  with  thy  own;  yet 
there  is  no  unrighteousness  with  God;  but  what- 
ever thou  dost,  is  meet  and  right  to  be  done, 
though  many  of  thy  providential  ways  are  here 
in  the  dark  to  all,  as  now  all  thy  visible  works 
are  darkness  to  thy  servant ;  yea,  Lord,  thou  art 
gracious  in  all  that  thou  bringest  upon  us ;  and 
canst  bring  the  greatest  good  even  out  of  the 
worst  evil  that  befalls  us ;  and  thyself  art  infinitely 


184  A  Prayer  for  a  blind  Man. 

better  to  all  thy  servants  than  their  eyes,  and  all 
the  things  that  ever  eyes  beheld. 

Thy  servant  here  desires,  with  meekness  and 
patience,  to  submit  to  thy  heavy  stroke,  and  con- 
fesses that  thou  art  just  in  quenching  that  light 
of  his  eyes,  which  he  did  not  use  as  he  ought  to 
thy  glory. 

But  wilt  thou,  O  gracious  Lord,  in  judgment 
remember  mercy;  and  bless  to  him  this  thy  af- 
flicting hand  upon  him,  that  it  may  promote  his 
repentance  and  peace  with  God;  arid  may  cut 
off  all  the  occasions  of  worse  stumbling  and  fall- 
ing, than  any  whereto  his  present  darkness  may 
expose  him;  that  so  many  temptations,  which 
enter  in  at  the  eyes,  being  taken  away,  he  freed 
from  those  interruptions  and  distractions,  may 
better  attend  on  the  Lord,  arid  be  more  intent 
upon  the  concerns  of  the  soul;  and  more  curious 
arid  exact  in  looking  inward  to  the  things  be* 
tween  God  and  his  heart;  and  in  pressing  after 
a  better  light  than  that  which  thou  hast^taken 
from  him.  Lord,  as  thou  hast  showed  thy  sov- 
ereignty and  justice,  in  taking  away  his  sight,  so 
let  thy  work  of  power  and  mercy  be  made  mani- 
fest, both  in  ministering  comforts  to  him,  and 
enabling  him  contentedly  and  cheerfully  to  bear 
up  under  the  loss;  and  also  making  it  up  to  him 
in  so  much  a  better  way,  that  he  may  be  a  gainer 
by  it  in  his  spiritual  affairs,  and  what  pertains  to 
his  everlasting  bliss.  O  good  God!  bring  him 
out  of  the  sinful  darkness  into  thy  marvellous 
light,  that  he  may  be  light  in  the  Lord,  though 
he  wants  the  light  of  this  world. 

O  thou  Father  of  lights,  enlighten  the  eyes  of 
his  understanding,  that  he  may  see  what  is  the 
hope  of  thy  calling,  and  what  the  riches  of  the 


A  Prayer  under  grievous  Pains.  185 

glory  of  thy  inheritance  in  the  saints,  and  what 
the  mighty  power  of  thy  Spirit  which  works  in 
them  that  do  believe.  Now  that  he  cannot  be- 
hold  the  temporal  things,  O  that  he  may  be  more 
earnest  in  looking  after  the  unseen  things  which 
are  eternal;  in  looking  to  Jesus,  and  minding 
the  things  of  his  peace  and  studying  the  mys- 
teries of  salvation,  and  the  wonders  of  thy  love, 
and  the  glories  of  thy  kingdom.  O  thou  Giver 
of  all  grace !  give  him  the  eye  of  faith  and  spiri- 
tual discerning,  to  see  him  that  is  invisible,  whom 
no  mortal  eye  hath  seen  or  can  see.  Gracious 
Lord,  discover  thyself  still  more  and  more  to 
him,  and  reveal  thy  Son  to  him,  and  teach  and 
guide  him,  and  entertain  him  with  thoughts  and 
considerations  pertinent  to  his  condition;  and 
let  thy  good  Spirit,  as  a  counsellor  and  comfort- 
er, still  abide  in  him,  and  bring  to  his  mind,  and 
work  upon  his  heart,  all  things  that  shall  make 
for  his  edification  and  encouragement  in  thy  holy 
ways ;  have  compassion  upon  him,  O  Lord,  and 
be  gracious  and  kind  to  him,  and  do  all  that 
thou  knowest  needful  and  good  for  him,  and  lead 
him,  and  help  him  on  continually,  till  in  thy.light, 
he  shall  see  light,  and  have  his  eyes  opened  at 
the  last  to  see  the  splendour  of  thy  kingdom,  and 
all  the  joy  of  thy  salvation  ;  yea,  to  see  thy  glori- 
ous face,  to  see  thee  as  thou  art,  and  to  know  as 
ho  is  known  in  that  heavenly  presence  of  thine, 
where  is  fulness  of  joy ;  there  to  be  with  the 
Lord,  and  to  enjoy  thy  sight  and  love,  and  bless- 
ed self,  world  without  end.  Amen. 


o 


A  Prayer  under  grievous  Pains. 
LORD,  thou  art  a  merciful  God,  and  dost 
not  afflict  willingly,  nor  grieve  the  children 


186  Jl  Prayer  under  grievous  Pains. 

0f  men,  when  the  necessity  of  our  case  calls  for 
sharp  applications;  thou  chastises!  us  for  our 
profit,  that  we  may  be  partakers  of  thy  holiness 
Blessed  is  the  man  whom  thou  chasteneth,  O 
Lord,  and  teachest  him  out  of  thy  law  !  O  that  it 
may  be  in  much  mercy  to  the  soul  of  thy  servant, 
that  thy  hand  is  so  hard  upon  him  at  present ! 
Now  that  thou  hast  cast  him  into  the  furnace,  O 
that  it  may  be  a  means  to  purge  out  his  dross, 
and  to  fit  him  for  thy  acceptable  use  and  service. 
O  that  he  may  learn  such  things  in  the  school  of 
affliction,  as  may  stand  him  in  stead,  and  do  him 
good  for  ever. 

But  thou,  O  God  of  consolation,  who  knowest 
our  frame,  and  how  little  it  is  that  we  can  en- 
dure, though  it  be  so  much  that  we  deserve,  be 
pleased  to  remember  him  in  mercy ;  and  make 
his  sufferings  less,  or  thy  grace  in  him,  and  his 
patience  and  spiritual  strength,  greater  than  all 
his  sufferings.  O  take  the  load  off  him  or  lighten 
it  to  him,  or  enable  him  to  bear  what  thou  art 
pleased  to  lay  upon  him. — Lord,  all  his  desire  ig 
before  thee,  and  his  groaning  is  not  hid  from  thee. 
O  regard  his  affliction  when  thou  hearest  his 
cry ;  and  enter  not  into  judgment  with  him  ac- 
cording to  the  desert  of  his  sins ;  but  according 
to  thy  mercy  remember  thou  him,  for  thy  good- 
ness' sake  in  Jesus  Christ.  O  gracious  Father, 
sanctify  to  him  what  thou  hast  laid  upon  him, 
that  the  present  sore  evil  may  have  a  comforta- 
ble issue,  and  work  for  his  spiritual  and  eternal 
good;  and  the  Lord  support,  and  bear  him  up 
under  it,  and  bring  him  safe  and  happily  out  of 
it,  to  the  rejoicing  of  thy  servant,  and  the  glory 
of  thy  name;  and  however  thou  shalt  deal  with 
shim  O  good  Lord,  suppress  all  his  repinings  at 


A  Prayer  under  dangerous  Sickness.       187 

thy  dealings,  that  he  may  not  so  sin  as  to  charge 
God  foolishly,  who  never  dost  the  thing  but  what 
is  most  righteous  and  fit  to  be  done  ;  yet  nothing 
but  what  thy  servant  shall  once  have  cause  to 
bless  and  praise  thee  for  doing;  but  teach  and  help 
him  to  glorify  God  in  the  time  of  his  visitation, 
by  his  humble  submission  to  thy  will,  his  patient 
abiding  to  thy  hand,  and  his  faithful  reformation 
Under  it,  that  thou  mayest  return  with  the  visit- 
ations of  thy  love,  and  restore  ease  and  comfort 
to  him,  and  show  him  the  joy  of  thy  salvation, 
for  thy  own  mercy's  sake  in  Jesus  Christ.  Amen, 

Jl  Prayer  under  dangerous  Sickness. 

OLord  God  Almighty,  and  ever  blessed,  in 
whom  we  all  ever  live,  and  move  and  are ; 
we  acknowledge  it  to  be  of  thy  mercies  we  are 
not  consumed,  because  thy  compassions  fail  not. 
If  thou  hadst,  long  before  this  time,  cut  us  off  in 
our  sins,  and  shut  us  up  under  final  despair  of 
thy  mercy,  yet  righteous  hadst  thou  been,  O 
Lord;  and  how  justly  mightest  thou  now  refuse 
to  hear  us  calling  upon  thee  in  our  prayers  as  we 
so  often  have  refused  to  hear  thee  calling  upon 
us  by  the  motions  of  thy  Holy  Spirit ;  but  thou 
art  God,  and  not  man ;  and  thy  thoughts  are  not 
as  our  thoughts,  nor  thy  ways  as  our  ways ;  but 
as  the  heavens  are  higher  than  the  earth,  so  are 
thy  thoughts  and  thy  ways  above  ours.  Thou 
art  our  refuge  and  strength,  and  present  help  in 
time  of  need  and  trouble ;  in  which  times  thou 
hast  commanded  us  to  call  upon  thee,  and  hast 
promised  to  hear  us,  and  to  give  us  cause  to 
praise  arid  glorify  thee  for  thy  goodness  and 
mercy  to  us. 

And  now  we  come  to  thee,  O  Lord  our  God,  in 


188         A  Prayer  under  dangerous  Sickness. 

behalf  of  this  thy  servant,  that  lies  here  in  a  low 
and  distressed  state,  under  thy  chastened  hand. 
Look  down  we  beseech  thee,  mercifully  upon 
him;  and  be  thou  gracious  and  favourable  to 
him,  according  to  the  multitude  of  thy  tender 
mercies  in  Christ  Jesus :  in  as  great  danger  as  he 
is,  yet  if  thou  wilt,  O  Lord,  thou  canst  set  him 
up,  and  make  him  whole;  if  thou  but  speak  the 
word,  the  thing  will  be  done. — And  in  submis- 
sion to  thy  most  wise  and  good  disposal  of  all 
things,  we  would  beg  this  mercy  at  thy  hands, 
that  thou  wouldst  be  pleased  to  rebuke  his  dis- 
temper, to  remove  thy  stroke,  and  cause  the  bit- 
ter cup  which  thou  hast  given  him  to  pass  away 
from  him,  and  make  him  a  way  to  escape  out  of 
the  affliction  that  is  upon  him,  and  to  this  end, 
that  thou  wouldst  direct  to  the  means  proper  for 
his  help,  and  command  a  blessing  upon  them  to 
promote  his  recovery.  Spare  him,  good  Lord, 
and  restore  him  if  it  be  thy  will,  that  he  may 
have  a  long  time  to  work  out  his  salvation,  and 
be  more  useful  in  his  place,  and  do  more  good  in 
his  generation ;  or  however  thou  shalt  be  pleas- 
ed to  deal  with  him  as  to  the  concerns  of,  his 
body,  which  we  pray  may  be  in  a  way  of  gentle- 
ness and  tender  mercy  ;  yet  Lord,  let  his  soul  be 
ever  precious  in  thy  sight ;  and  may  this  sick- 
ness of  his  body  be  for  the  health  of  that  im- 
mortal better  part,  to  promote  his  salvation  ever- 
lasting. 

O  give  him  a  right  discerning  of  the  things 
belonging  to  his  peace,  before  they  be  hid  from 
his  eyes;  show  him  what  he  is  to  do;  enable  him 
for  the  doing  of  it,  that  he  may  have  the  sound 
peace  with  God,  through  Jesus  Christ;  give  him 
the  true  repentance  towards  God,  and  the  right 


A  Prayer  under  lingering  Sickness.         189 

faith  in  the  only  Saviour  of  the  world;  wash  and 
cleanse  his  soul  with  the  blood  of  thy  Son,  and 
the  graces  of  thy  Spirit,  that  it  may  be  delivered 
from  all  defilements  it  has  contracted  in  this 
present  evil  world,  and  be  found  safe  and  happy 
in  the  hour  of  death,  and  in  the  great  day  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Fit  him,  O  Lord,  for  living 
or  dying,  whatever  in  thy  wise  and  righteous 
providence  thou  hast  designed  for  him,  that  it 
may  be  unto  him  Christ  to  live,  and  gain  to  die ; 
that  in  all,  he  may  find  cause  to  glorify  thy  name, 
still  experiencing  thy  gracious  goodness  to  him 
in  the  Son  of  thy  love;  if  thou  shalt  please  yet  to 
release  him  from  his  bed  of  languishing,  to  live 
longer  upon  earth,  O  that  he  may  live  to  thee  in 
thy  fear,  and  to  thy  praise,  and  do  thee  better 
service,  and  bring  thee  greater  glory  ;  or,  if  thou 
hast  determined  that  this  sickness  shall  be  a  sick- 
ness unto  death,  and  this  visitation  his  last  visit- 
ation, prepare  him,  O  merciful  God,  by  thy 
grace,  for  thy  blessed  self;  and  grant  him  a  safe 
and  comfortable  passage  out  of  this  wretched 
life,  to  an  infinitely  better,  through  the  merits 
and  mediation  of  thy  beloved  Son,  our  only  Sa- 
viour, Jesus  Christ.  Jlmen. 

A  Prayer  wider  lingering  Sickness. 

OGOOD  God;  thou  hast  long  kept  thy  ser- 
vant under  thy  chastening  hand;  thou  hast 
made  him  acquainted  with  grief,  and  his  sick- 
ness is  become  even  his  own  familiar  companion; 
yet  O  blessefl  Lord,  grant  that  we  may  not  think 
it  long  to  wait  thy  leisure,  who  art  pleased  to 
wait  so  long  for  the  return  of  a  sinner ;  and  who 
art  very  pitiful  and  of  tender  mercy,  having  kind 
intentions,  even  in  thy  bitter  dispensations ;  yea, 


190       A  Prayer  under   lingering  Sickness. 

chastenest  whom  thou  lovest,  and  scourgest 
every  son  whom  thou  receivest  Teach  him,  O 
gracious  Father,  to  see  love  in  thy  rod,  as  well 
as  justice  in  all  thy  dealings,  that  he  may  hum- 
ble himself  under  thy  mighty  hand,  and  also 
think  it  good  for  him  to  be  afflicted  ;  and  patient- 
ly wait  for  the  Lord,  in  hope  of  good  out  of  this 
evil,  and  at  last  a  happy  conclusion  of  the  long 
visitation.  Blessed  be  thy  name,  O  Father  of 
mercies,  that  thou  dost  not  pour  out  all  thy 
wrath;  but  in  judgment  rememberest  mercy,  to 
make  the  affliction  supportable,  giving  some 
ease  arid  relaxation  from  torturing  pains,  and 
mingling  many  sweet  ingredients  with  this  bitter 
cup.  O  make  him  so  sensible  of  thy  kindness 
and  love,  that  he  may  be  not  only  contented,  but 
thankful  under  thy  hand. 

Yet,  that  his  faith  may  not  fail,  nor  his  patience 
be  wearied  out,  return,  O  Lord  of  love,  at  the  last, 
and  give  thy  servant  a  discharge  from  this  war- 
fare ;  and  say  to  the  affliction,  it  is  enough. 
Make  him  glad,  according  to  the  time  wherein 
thou  hast  afflicted,  and  wherein  he  has  seen  so 
much  adversity ;  and  till  thou  hast  been  pleased 
to  remember  him  in  such  mercy,  O  grant  that  he 
may  neither  despise  thy  chastening,  nor  faint  un- 
der thy  rebukes;  but  take  all  as  he  ought,  and 
employ  the  time  which  thou  lendest,  and  im- 
prove the  affliction  which  thou  contiriuest,  as  a 
gracious  opportunity  for  his  soul's  advantage; 
that  under  the  decays  of  the  outer  man  the  inner 
may  be  renewed  day  by  day;  and  all  that  is 
wanting  in  his  spiritual  concerns  may  be  filled 
up,  and  whatever  pertains  to  his  everlasting  sal- 
vation promoted  and  perfected,  through  the 


A  Prayer  for  the  Light-headed.  191 

riches  of  thy  grace,  and  the  multitude  of  thy 
mercies  in  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

A  Prayer  for  one  that  is  Stupified,  or  Light-headed. 

OTHOU  great  Maker  and  Preserver  of  men, 
who  knowest  our  frame  and  our  frailty,  how 
soon  our  senses  may  fail  us,  and  our  understand- 
ing depart  from  us ;  to  what  accidents,  distem- 
pers and  decays  our  weak  nature  is  liable,  even 
such  as  may  make  the  most  acute  and  judicious 
man  quickly  become  as  a  child  or  idiot,  and  turn 
all  our  wisdom  and  ingenuity  into  folly  and  fren- 
zy. We  are  every  one  of  us  in  thy  hands,  O 
Lord,  to  be  used  as  thou  wilt;  to  have  our 
speech  and  sense,  yea,  our  very  breath  and  life 
taken  away  when  thou  pleasest.  Thou  art 
righteous  in  all  that  conies  upon  us ;  and  who 
shall  say  unto  thee,  what  doest  thou  ?  Yet,  even 
in  chastising  and  correcting,  thou  keepest  a 
measure,  and  dost  not  forget  thy  mercy  and 
compassion,  nor  drivest  us  away  from  the  throne 
of  grace,  but  biddest  us  call  upon  thee  in  our 
troubles,  and  art  still  attentive  to  the  prayers  of 
thy  servants ;  yea,  waitest  to  be  gracious,  and 
wilt  not  let  them  seek  thy  face  in  vain.  Hear  us, 
O  Father  of  mercies,  we  beseech  thee ;  and  let 
thy  mercy  now  be  showed  to  thy  poor  weak  dis- 
tempered servant,  according  to  the  exigence  of 
his  case,  in  the  time  of  his  need. 

Thou,  OGod,  all-sufficient,  who  Greatest  facul- 
ties, canst  as  easily  restore  them,  and  give  light 
and  understanding  even  to  the  simple ;  and 
scatter  all  the  clouds,  and  supply  and  rectify 
every  thing  that  is  defective  and  amiss.  O  that 
thou  would st  be  pleased  to  show  thyself  so  gra- 
ciously and  powerfully  in  the  present  case,  and 


1 92  A  Prayer  for  the  Light-headed. 

repair  the  breaches  made  upon  thy  servant ;  and 
give  him  sense  and  apprehension  sufficient  to 
discern  the  state  of  his  soul,  and  to  see  the  things 
of  his  peace. 

Thou  Lord  Almighty,  who  didst  command  the 
light  to  shine  out  of  darkness,  and  often  bringest 
order  and  beauty  even  out  of  confusion  and  de- 
formity, canst  lighten  the  darkest  mind,  inform 
the  weakest  head,  and  regulate  the  wildest  im- 
agination; yea,  thou  canst  speak  immediately  to 
the  heart,  and  incline  and  secure  it  to  thyself; 
and  canst  convey  instruction,  and  all  suitable 
relief,  where  the  doors  are  shut  up  against  us. 
O  God  of  all  power  and  love,  wilt  thou  speak  to 
the  soul  of  thy  servant,  so  that  it  may  observe 
thy  voice ;  and  seize  that  precious  jewel  for  thy 
own,  that  it  may  be  safe  in  thy  hands.  Lord, 
direct  and  quicken,  help  arid  assist  him,  where 
we  cannot,  and  do  the  great  work  of  grace,  wor- 
thy of  the  wonder-working  God,  to  effect  salva- 
tion for  him  by  thy  own  self,  in  the  failure  of  out- 
ward means  and  applications.  O  have  pity  up- 
on his,  infirmities,  and  be  merciful  to  his  mis- 
takes and  failings,  his  rovings  and  follies ;  give 
him,  gracious  God,  a  broken,  penitent  heart,  and 
a  believing,  willing  mind :  and  then  accept  him 
in  thy  beloved  Son,  according  to  what  he  hath ; 
and  of  thy  rich  grace,  make  him  an  entrance  into 
thy  everlasting  kingdom,  where  all  the  shadows 
being  vanished  and  gone,  he  may  see  light  in  thy 
light,  and  joyfully  give  thee  praise  and  glory  to 
all  eternity.  Be  gracious,  O  good  Lord,  and  in- 
dulgent to  him;  and  do  all  that  thou  knowest  to 
be  needful  and  good  for  him,  through  the  media- 
tion and  for  the  merits  of  him  who  took  part  of 
our  flesh  and  blood,  that  he  might  be  touched 


A  Prayer  for  a  sick  Child.  193 

with  the  feeling  of  our  infirmities ;  and  to  thy 
mercy,  in  that  hour,  merciful  and  faithful  High 
Priest,  we  commit  this  infirm  member  of  his 
mystical  body,  beseeching  thee,  O  blessed  Lord 
our  God,  to  show  thyself  unto  him  a  compassion- 
ate and  tender  Father,  in  the  same  Jesus  Christ 
our  only  Saviour.  Amen. 

A    Prayer  for  a  sick  Child. 

OGOD  of  the  spirits  of  all  flesh,  the  only  Giv- 
er and  Preserveroflife  in  every  living  soul; 
the  smallest,  as  well  as  the  greatest,  are  thy  work 
and  thy  care;  and  neither  without  the  compass 
of  thy  providence,  nor  below  the  notice  and  re- 
gard of  our  heavenly  Father,  who  though  so 
great  above  all,  yet  despiseth  riot  any !  O  dear 
Lord,  let  thy  thoughts  be  full  of  pity  and  tender 
mercy  to  this  poor  siek  child,  for  whose  afflic- 
tions we  are  now  concerned ;  and  send  him  that 
relief  and  comfort  from  above,  which  none  of  us 
are  able  to  give;  either  lighten  the  load,  or  in- 
crease the  strength  to  bear  it ;  and  deal  gently 
and  graciously  with  him,  good  Lord,  beyond 
what  we  are  worthy  to  ask  at  thy  hands,  even 
for  thy  own  goodness  and  mercy's  sake.  Spare 
him,  O  Father  of  mercies,  and  grant  him  ease 
and  release  from  his  trouble  ;  yea,  make  haste  to 
deliver  him,  we  beseech  thee ;  and  in  submission 
to  thy  will  we  beg  the  recovery  of  his  health,  arid 
the  continuance  of  his  life,  to  be  spent  in  thy 
fear,  and  to  thy  praise,  that  he  may  continue  to 
do  thee  service,  and  bring  thee  glory  in  his  days 
upon  earth;  but,  forasmuch  as  children  them- 
selves, who  are  shapen  in  iniquhy,  and  conceiv- 
ed in  sin,  are  therefore  subject  to  death,  which 
reigns  even  over  them  that  have  not  sinned,  after 

R 


194          A  Prayer  for  a  dying  Man,  fa, 

the  similitude  of  Adam's  transgression,  if  thou 
art  pleased,  Lord,  to  take  him  away  so  early,  O 
let  it  be  in  mercy,  and  prepare  him  then  so  for 
thyself,  that  it  may  be  to  him  the  greatest  gain 
to  die;  that  he  may  not  only  be  delivered  from 
the  miseries  and  dangers  of  this  world,  and  that 
to  come,  but  by  the  quickest  improvement,  may 
be  perfected  in  knowledge  and  grace,  and  made 
ripe  and  ready  for  heaven  and  eternal  glory, 
through  the  infinite  satisfaction  and  merits  of  thy 
beloved  Son,  our  compassionate  Saviour,  who  so 
kindly  embraced  and  blessed  young  children, 
and  ever  lives  at  thy  right  hand  to  intercede  for 
young  and  old ;  the  only  prevailing  Advocate  for 
us  all.  And  to  thy  mercy  in  him,  O  most  gra- 
cious God,  we  commend  this  afflicted  child,  be- 
seeching thee  to  deal  well  by  him,  and  be  good 
and  kind  to  him ;  and  out  of  the  riches  of  thy 
grace,  provide  arid  do  abundantly,  as  thou  know* 
est  best  for  him,  in  life  and  death,  and  for  ever- 
more. Amen. 

A  Prayer  for  a  dying  Man  past  hope  of  Recovery. 

OTHE  hope  of  Israel,  and  the  Saviour  there- 
of in  time  of  trouble!  when  all  other  hope 
and  help  fail,  it  is  not  in  vain  to  seek  unto  thee 
for  succour,  who  canst  bring  back  from  the  mouth 
of  the  grave,  and  quicken  the  very  dead;  and 
where  thou  art  not  pleased  any  further  to  pro- 
long the  temporal  life,  yet  canst  deliver  from 
eternal  death,  and  bring  safe  to  the  blessed  life 
everlasting ;  for  the  sake  of  which,  no  troubles  or 
death  should  be  thought  too  much  to  be  endured; 
if  by  any  means  we  may  attain  to  the  joyful  re- 
surrection of  the  dead,  and  get  safe  to  the 
heavenly  Canaan,  the  land  of  the  true  living, 


A  Prayer  for  a  Dying  Man,  8fc.         195 

where  death  itself  is  swallowed  up  of  life,  and 
thy  saints  are  above  the  danger  of  dying  anj 
more,  and  live  full  of  joy  to  everlasting  ages. 
We  think  it  too  late  to  beg  the  recovery  of  thy 
servant,  O  Lord,  now  that  he  seems  to  us  going 
the  way  of  all  flesh,  and  justly  launching  forth  in- 
to his  everlasting  condition  ;  but  though  the  time 
of  his  departure  appears  to  be  at  hand,  yet  we 
cannot  think  it  too  late  to  beg  thy  mercy  for  him, 
as  long  as  his  life  is  in  him ;  and  as  we  cannot 
choose  but  be  greatly  concerned  for  him,  so  we 
know  not  how  better  to  express  this  our  concern 
for  him,  than  in  beseeching  thee  to  be  good  and 
gracious  to  him. 

O  Lord  our  God,  leave  him  not,  nor  forsake 
him,  but  support  and  assist  him  now  in  his  sorest 
extremities,  in  his  last  agonies,  when  he  is  to 
conflict  with  the  king  of  terrors;  let  him  find  the 
most  sweet  and  seasonable  aids  from  the  Almigh- 
ty God  of  his  salvation,  and  take  him  not  out  of 
this  life  till  thou  hast  fitted  him  for  a  better.  O 
thou  ever-living  God,  stand  by  him  in  the  dying 
hour,  and  secure  him  in  thy  hands  from  the  daily 
enemies  of  his  soul,  and  finish  all  that  is  wanting 
of  the  work  of  thy  grace  upon  his  heart;  freely 
and  fully  pardon,  and  deliver  him  from  all  his 
sins,  and  accomplish  him  to  appear  with  com- 
fort and  rejoicing  in  thy  blessed  presence.  O 
make  his  departure  easy,  and  full  of  peace  and 
hope;  carry  him  safe  through  the  dark  passage, 
upon  which  he  is  entering,  and  let  him  find  it  the 
gate  of  glory,  and  a  door  opened  into  the  ever- 
lasting kingdom  and  joy  of  his  Lord.  Into  thy 
hands  we  commend  his  spirit;  O  thou  Father  of 
mercies,  be  merciful  to  him,  and  receive  his  de- 
parting soul ;  and  when  he  is  numbered  among 


196    A  Prayer  upon  the  news  of  others*  Death. 

the  dead,  let  him  also  be  numbered  among  the 
redeemed  and  blessed  of  the  Lord,  for  his  sake, 
who  himself  died  for  sinners,  and  rose  again,  and 
lives,  and  is  alive  for  evermore,  and  has  the  keys 
of  death  and  hell.  To  thy  mercy,  in  that  blest 
Saviour  of  the  world,  O  most  merciful  Father, 
we  now  humbly  recommend  him;  beseeching 
thee  to  be  all  in  all  to  him,  and  infinitely  better 
than  we  are  worthy  or  able  to  ask  for  him;  and  let 
him  be  thine  in  life  and  death,  and  for  evermore, 
through  the  all  sufficient  mediation  of  thy  dear 
Son,  our  most  prevailing  Advocate  and  Redeem- 
er, Jesus  Christ.  Jlmen. 

Jl  Prayer  upon  the  news  of  others'*  Death. 

OLORD,  the  ever-living  and  all-disposing 
God,  in  whose  hands  our  breath  is,  arid  at 
whose  call  we  must  all  be  gone  out  of  this  world, 
and  our  place  here  will  be  no  more  found !  O 
what  is  man,  every  man  living,  even  at  his  best 
estate,  but  altogether  vanity  !  What  man  is  he 
that  liveth,  and  shall  not  see  death  ?  The  great 
and  the  mean,  the  wise  and  the  foolish,  good  and 
bad,  all  yield  up  the  ghost,  and  go  down  to  the 
grave.  Thou  art  pleased,  O  my  God,  to  give  me 
the  advantage  of  seeing  many  of  my  neighbours 
and  acquaintance  taken  away  to  their  long 
home  before  me,  and  leavest  me  yet  standing 
the  living  monument  of  thy  goodness;  with  these 
opportunities  to  appear  before  thee,  in  that  day 
of  grace,  which  through  the  forbearance  of  mj 
God,  is  yet  over  me.  O  what  am  I  better  than 
all  my  fathers  and  brethren,  that  I  should  be  ex- 
empted from  the  common  portion  of  all  men  liv- 
ing, when  it  is  appointed  to  all  men  once  to  die; 
and  I  am  as  sure  of  my  own  dying  as  if  I  were 


A  Prayer  upon  the  Death^  Sfc.  197 

already  dead!  O  let  me  not  be  as  the  brutes  that 
have  no  understanding,  without  mindfulness  of 
my  mortality,  or  consideration  of  my  latter  end; 
but  in  the  death  of  others,  let  me  see,  as  in  a 
glass,  my  own  frail  and  uncertain  state  in  the 
present  world  ;  how  slippery  is  my  standing,  and 
how  soon  1  must  follow  all  the  vast  multitude 
that  are  gone  before  me  out  of  the  land  of  the 
living.  O  let  me  make  full  account  of  it,  and  so 
live  as  one  that  surely  expects  to  die,  that  when 
my  own  turn  shall  come,  I  may  not  go  off  with  a 
heavy  heart,  but  depart  in  peace,  and  sleep  in 
Jesus,  having  my  soul  safe  in  thy  hands,  and  my 
body  resting  in  hope  of  gloriously  rising  at  the 
last  day,  through  him  who  is  the  resurrection  and 
the  life,  our  blessed  Saviour  and  redeemer,  Jesus 
Christ.  Amen. 

Ji  Prayer  upon  the  Death  of  our  dear  Friends. 

GREAT  God,  the  Lord  of  all,  thou  dost  what- 
soever thou  pleasestin  heaven  and  in  earth; 
and  who  may  call  in  question  any  thing  which 
thou  dost !  Thou  givest  and  takest  away,  raisest 
and  dashest  our  hopes,  sendest  and  destroyest 
our  comforts,  and  thou  art  wise  and  righteous, 
and  good  in  all;  it  is  just  we  should  be  depriv- 
ed of  the  enjoyments  which  we  nothing  but  slight 
and  abuse ;  yea,  it  is  good  for  us  to  have  those 
things  taken  from  us,  which  our  abuse  makes 
hurtful  to  us :  blessed  be  thy  name,  then  even 
when  thou  takest  away,  as  well  as  when  thou 
givest;  yet,  O  Lord,  who  art  justly  displeased  for 
our  sins,  in  mercy  turn  these  losses  to  the  ad- 
vantage of  my  soul,  and  so  repair  the  breaches 
out  of  thy  own  infinite  fulness,  that  I  may  find 

thy  own  blessed  self  unto  me  more  and  better 

R  2 


198  A  Prayer  upon  the  Death,  Sfc. 

than  many,  even  such,  friends  and  comforters; 
they  were  but  the  instruments  and  means  of  con- 
veyance ;  thou  the  eternal  spring  and  fountain 
of  all  good,  art  still  the  same,  and  amidst  all 
these  changes,  never  changest  at  all;  and  what 
thou  didst  derive  to  me  by  such  means,  thou 
canst  more  than  make  out  to  me  another  way. 

O  my  heavenly  Father,  take  my  eyes,  and 
heart,  and  hope,  off  of  such  poor  dying  comforts, 
to  fix  them  upon  the  only  satisfying  good;  in  the 
enjoyment  of  which  consists  all  my  true  life,  and 
peace  and  bliss ;  and  let  the  great  emptiness  and 
frequent  disappointments  that  I  find  in  all  the 
comforts  of  creatures  and  all  the  enjoyments  of 
the  world,  teach  me  more  wisdom  than  to  place 
my  affections  and  dependence  upon  them;  and 
help  to  disengage  and  loosen  my  heart  from 
them,  and  raise  up  my  desires  and  hopes  to  the 
glorious  permanent  objects  so  infinitely  to  be 
preferred  before  them.  O  let  me  be  more  cruci- 
fied to  the  world,  where  is  nothing  but  emptiness 
and  frustration,  vanity  and  vexation  of  spirit;  and 
may  I  have  my  conversation  more  in  heaven, 
where  is  my  blessed  Lord,  and  all  his  happy 
followers,  of  whom  the  world  was  not  worthy, 
and  every  thing  that  the  soul  of  man  can  want  or 
wish,  O  God  of  the  spirits  of  all  flesh,  especially 
of  the  just  made  perfect,  help  me  so  to  follow 
thy  servants,  my  friends,  departed  in  the  Lord, 
that  I  with  them,  may  attain  at  last,  to  live  in  the 
sight  and  presence,  in  the  love  and  praises,  and 
in  the  fellowship  and  enjoyment  of  thee,  my  God, 
blessed  for  ever.  Amen. 


d  Prayer  for  Patience.  199 

Jl  Prayer  for  Patience. 

OM Y  God  !  thou  knowest  what  an  evil  world 
we  live  in,  which  I  help  to  make  still  worse 
by  my  sins;  and  I  that  have  done  so  little  good, 
and  so  much  evil,  must  not  look  for  all  good,  and 
no  evil,  at  the  hands  of  God.  In  the  world,  thou 
hast  told  us  we  shall  have  tribulation;  and  O  that 
my  tribulation  may  work  patience,  that  I  may  go 
away  contented  with  the  load  thou  hast  been 
pleased  to  lay  upon  me,  arid  still  possess  my  soul 
in  patience,  however  tried  by  corrections  from 
thy  hand,  or  by  injuries  from  the  hands  of  men; 
to  blame  the  instrument,  or  complain  of  thy  pro- 
vidence, under  the  pressures  laying  upon  me, 
will  but  torment  and  break  myself  to  pieces, 
and  still  add  to  that  which  I  count  so  grievous 
to  endure.  O  let  me  better  provide  for  my  own 
ease,  ^s  well  as  duty,  than  so  to  disquiet  myself 
in  vain;  and  whatever  thou  dost  with  me,  O 
Lord,  let  me  be  dumb,  and  not  open  my  mouth 
to  reply  or  murmur,  because  it  is  thy  doing; 
make  me  to  acquiesce  and  rest  satisfied,  even  in 
the  bitterest  dispensations  of  thy  good  providence ; 
contented  with  such  things  as  I  have,  and  patient 
in  the  want  of  such  comforts  as  I  have  not :  and 
when  nothing  but  trouble  and  sorrow  is  my  por- 
tion, had  I  what  my  sins  deserve,  O  let  me  not 
be  querulous  and  forward,  forasmuch  as  thou 
dealest  not  with  me  after  my  sins,  nor  rewardest 
me  according  to  my  iniquities ;  but  may  I  patiently 
encounter  all  difficulties  and  grievances  in  my 
passage  through  this  weary  troublesome  world, 
knowing  that  the  same  afflictions  are  accomplish- 
ed in  my  brethren  that  are  in  the  world;  and  it  is 
but  the  common  lot  of  all  poor  sinful  mortals  here 


200  A  Prayer  for  Preparation 

upon  earth.  O  make  me  patient  to  the  coming  of 
the  Lord ;  enduring  all  grievous  things  with  a 
meek  and  quiet  spirit,  seeing  they  are  happy  that 
endure  $  and  such  as  endure  to  the  end  shall  be 
saved.  O  my  Lord,  let  no  pains  or  sufferings  ever 
drive  me  from  thee,  but  rather  be  a  means  to 
bring  me  nearer  to  thee;  and  let  the  remembrance 
of  the  great  day  of  the  Lord,  and  the  eternal  state 
of  the  world  to  come,  work  in,  me  a  contempt  of 
this  world,  mortification  of  my  lusts,  and  patient 
abiding  of  the  cross;  seeing  it  is  of  so  little  con- 
sideration, what  we  do  enjoy  or  endure  here  for 
a  short  season,  so  that  we  be  delivered  from  the 
wrath  to  come,  and  it  may  go  well  with  us  for 
ever.  O  let  me,  by  patient  continuance  in  well- 
doing, seek  for  glory  and  honour,  and  immortality, 
and  count  nothing  in  this  world  either  dear  to 
possess,  or  intolerable  to  suffer;  so  that  I  may  finish 
my  course  with  joy,  and  at  last  rest  from  all  my 
labours  and  troubles,  with  the  redeemed  and 
blessed  of  the  Lord ;  which  I  wait  and  beg  for  at 
thy  good  hands,  O  my  gracious  Father,  for  the 
sake  of  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  for  Preparation  and  Readiness  to  Die. 

LORD,  what  is  our  life  but  a  vapour  that  ap- 
pears for  a  little  time,  and  then  vanisheth 
away !  even  at  the  longest,  how  short ;  and  at  the 
strongest,  how  frail !  and  when  we  think  ourselves 
most  secure,  yet  we  know  not  what  a  day  may 
bring  forth,  to  turn  us  out  of  all ;  nor  how  soon 
thou  mayest  come,  before  we  are  aware,  to  call 
us  to  our  last  account.  Quickly  shall  we  be  as 
water  spilt  on  the  ground,  that  cannot  be  gather- 
ed up  again ;  quickly  snatched  away  from  hence, 
and  our  place  here  shall  know  us  no  more  for 


and  Readiness  to  Die.  201 

ever;  our  days,  one  ofter  another,  are  spent 
apace,  and  we  know  not  how  near  to  us  is  our 
last  day,  when  our  bodies  shall  be  laid  up  in  the 
grave,  and  our  souls  called  to  appear  at  the  tri- 
bunal of  God,  to  receive  our  standing  doom,  for 
bliss  or  wo  eternal.  Yet,  O  good  God,  how  have 
I  lived  in  this  world,  as  if  I  should  never  leave  it! 
how  unmindful  of  my  latter  end !  how  improvident 
of  my  time!  how  careless  of  my  soul !  how  negli- 
gent in  my  preparation  for  my  everlasting  con- 
dition! so  that  thou  mayest  justly  bring  my  last 
hour  as  a  snare  upon  me,  to  surprise  me  in  my 
sins,  and  my  unpreparedness  to  appear  before 
thee.  But,  O  dear  Father  of  mercies,  remember 
not  my  sins  against  me ;  but  remember  thy  own 
tender  mercies,  and  thy  loving  kindness  which 
have  been  ever  of  old.  O  remember  how  short 
my  time  is,  and  spare  me,  that  I  may  recover  my 
strength  before  I  go  hence,  and  be  no  more  seen; 
make  me  so  wise  as  to  understand  and  consider 
my  latter  end,  and  to  remember  also,  myself,  the 
shortness  of  my  time ;  and  teach  me  so  to  num- 
ber my  days,  that  I  may  apply  my  heart  to  the 
true  wisdom.  Lord,  what  have  I  to  do  in  this 
world,  but  to  make  ready  for  t!.e  wrorld  to  come. 
O  that  I  may  be  mindful  of  it,  and  intent  upon  it, 
to  finish  my  work  before  I  finish  my  course ! 

In  the  days  of  my  health  and  peace,  and  pros- 
perity, O  that  I  may  remember,  and  provide  for 
the  time  of  trouble  and  sickness,  and  death, 
when  the  world's  enjoyment  shall  shrink  away 
from  me,  and  prove  utterly  unable  to  support  and 
help  me.  O  let  me  never  allow  myself  in  any 
course  of  living  wherein  I  would  be  loth  or  afraid 
to  die ;  but  let  me*  see  my  sins  die  before  mef 
that  they  may  never  rise  up  in  judgment  against 


202  A  Prayer  in  Public 

me.  and  enable  me  so  to  die  unto  them  daily  that 
I  may  not  die  for  sin  eternally.  Instruct  me, 
good  Lord,  and  assist  me  in  my  great  work  of  pre- 
paration for  a  dying  hour,  that  I  may  not  then  be 
dreadfully  surprised,  but  meet  it  with  courage 
and  comfort.  O  gracious  God,  show  me  how  to 
do  it:  quicken  me  into  a  serious  concernment 
ahout  it,  and  help  me  with  good  success  to  per- 
form it,  that  I  may  be  fitted  for  heaven  ere  I 
leave  this  earth,  and  may  have  the  sound  peace 
with  God,  through  Jesus  Christ,  before  I  depart 
hence  into  the  state,  where  I  must  abide  for  ever. 
O  my  Lord,  make  me  so  ready  to  meet  thee  at 
thy  coming,  that  thy  coming  may  be  the  matter 
of  my  hopes  and  desires,  and  joyful  expectations, 
that  I  may  love  the  appearance  of  Christ,  whc 
is  my  life,  and  long  for  that  blessed  time,  when 
thou  wilt  put  an  everlasting  period  to  all  my  sins 
and  troubles,  and  temptations  here,  and  ex- 
change my  present  being  in  the  body,  to  be  ever 
with  the  Lord.  O  my  strength,  help  me  so  to 
live,  as,  at  the  hour  of  death,  I  shall  wish  that  I 
had  lived,  and  so  to  make  ready  for  death  all 
my  days,  that  at  my  last  day  I  may  have  nothing 
to  do  but  to  die,  and  cheerfully  resign  my  spirit 
into  thy  gracious  hands,  O  my  Father,  and  find  a 
merciful  admission  to  thy  favour  and  to  thy 
kingdom,  for  the  sake  of  my  only  Saviour,  Jesus 
Christ,  Amen. 

A  Prayer  in  Public  commotions  and  Distractions 

ALMIGHTY  Lord,  the  righteous  God!  thy 
judgments  are  in  all  the  earth,  and  it  is  no 
wonder  if  this  wicked  world  should  be  also  a 
troublesome  world,  where  wars  and  rumours  of 
wars  are  abroad,  and  the  sword  is  making  havoc 


Commotion  and  Distractions.  203 

Among  the  nations;  and  though  we  have  hitherto 
been  kept  from  such  wasting  calamities  as  have 
swept  away  multitudes  of  our  brethren,  yet  thou, 
for  our  sins,  hast  now   broken  our  nation,    and 
made    it  tremble:    O  heal  the  breaches  of   it, 
for  it  shaketh.     We  have  no  sanctuary  to  fly  to 
for  refuge,  but  that  mercy  of  thine,  O  good  God, 
which  we  have  so  much  and  so  often  abused  and 
despised;   nor  any  help  from  trouble,  but  what 
we  seek  at  thy  hands,  who  for  our  sins  art  justly 
displeased.     O  thou  that  waitest  to  be  gracious, 
and  whose  mercy  endureth  for  ever,  have  com- 
passion on  us,  and  spare  us  good   Lord;  spare 
thy  people  whom  thou  hast   redeemed  with  thy 
precious   blood,   and    still  signalized    with    thy 
wonderful  mercies;  and  turn  again,  O  Lord  God 
of  hosts ;  cause  thy  face  to  shine  upon  us,  and  we 
shall  be  saved.     O  make  us  a  way  to  escape  out 
of  those  fears  and  dangers  wherein  our  sins  have 
involved  us,  that  peace  may  be  restored,  arid  the 
gospel  of  peace  in  much  mercy  continued  to  us 
in  our  posterity,  as  long  as  the  world  endures.  O 
that  we  may  learn  righteousness  by  thy  judg- 
ments, and   not  dare  to  go  on  in  our  trespasses 
and  rebellions  against  thee,  when  thou  hast  a 
controversy  with  us,  and  art  making  inquisition 
for  blood  amongst  us;   but  let  us  so  turn  to  thee 
in  the  way  of  our  duty,  that  thou  mayest  turn  to  us 
in  a  way  of  saving  mercy;  and  seeing  this  is  not 
our  rest,  and  little  but  alarms  and  commotions, 
and  one  deep  calling  to  another,  is  to  be  expect- 
ed in  this  uncertain  tumultuous  world,  O  that  we 
may  have  our  eyes  further  than  the  ends  of  the 
earth,  and  lift  them  up  to  the  Lord,  from  whom 
cometh  our  help,  and  seek  the  continuing  city  to 
come,  and  lay  up  our  rest  and  our  treasure,  in 


204  Ji  Prayer  in  Time  of 

that  kingdom  which  cannot  be  moved ;  that  we 
may  choose  the  good  part  which  shall  not  be 
taken  from  us,  and  flee  from  the  wrath  to  come, 
and  have  peace  in  our  Lord,  and  hope  in  our 
death;  even  the  hope  of  that  eternal  life,  which 
is  thy  promise  and  gift,  O  blessed  God,  through 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

Jl  Prayer  in  Time  of  threatening  Dangers. 
/f^\  RE  AT  God,  holy  and  just !  I  am  amazed  and 
\JT  terrified    to  think  of  the  dreadful  wages 
which  my  sins  have  deserved;  fearfulness  and 
trembling  are  come  upon  me,  and  my  spirit  is 
overwhelmed,  and  my  heart  fails  me  for  fear,  so 
that  I  know  not  what  to  do;  but  my  eyes  are 
upon  thee,  my  great  Saviour  and  mighty  Deliver- 
er,  to  give  me   that  help  which  from  man  it  is 
vain  to  expect;  and  this  time  that  I  am  afraid,  I 
will  trust  in  thee ;  and  under  the  shadow  of  thy 
wings  make  my  refuge,  till  these  calamities  be 
overpast.  O  my  Lord,  take  me  to  thy  fatherly  care, 
and  thy  almighty  protection,  and  save  me  from 
the  hands  of  rny  enemies,  and  from  feeling  the 
evils  which  I  fear  to  come  upon  me:  O   dispel 
the  clouds,  and  turn  away  the  storms,  and  clear 
up  the  face  of  heaven,  so  blackened  now  over  our 
heads.     Thou,  O   Lord,  that   knowest  how   to 
deliver,  and  never  art  at  a  loss  to  effect  what  thou 
wilt,  command  deliverances  for  me,  I  beseech 
thee:   and  be  not  far   from  me,  when    trouble 
seems  so  nigh  to  me,  but  let  me  find  thy  .help  at 
hand,  in  this  tin>e  and  case  of  my  need. 

O  my  God,  thou  hast  been  a  shelter  for  me, 
and  a  strong  tower  of  defence  from  the  enemy; 
and  though  I  walk  in  the  midst  of  trouble,  thou 
wilt  receive  me;  thou  wilt  stretch  forth  thy 


threatening  Dangers.  205 

hand  upon  my  enemy,  and  thy  right  hand  shall 
save  me.  O  my  Saviour,  I  fly  to  thec  to  hide  me; 
be  thou  pleased  to  defend  me  from  them  that 
rise  up  against  me  :  consider  the  trouble  that  I 
suffer  of  them  that  hate  me,  and  lead  me  in  thy 
righteousness  because  of  my  enemies;  make  thy 
way  straight  before  my  face.  Deliver  me,  ©  Lord, 
from  the  evil  and  violent  man,  and  from  my  per- 
secutors that  are  stronger  than  1.  O  let  not  any 
that  are  my  enemies  wrongfully  rejoice  over  me; 
but  show  me  some  token  for  good,  that  they  who 
hate  me  may  see  it  and  be  ashamed,  because 
thou  Lord  hast  help'ed  and  comforted  me.  O 
fortify  me  against  that  fear  of  any  men  which 
would  terrify  me  out  of  my  duty  to  thee,  my  God; 
let  me  never  be  so  awed  by  them  as  to  make 
bold  with  thee,  and  trespass  upon  thee  to  escape 
them,  or  to  ingratiate  myself  with  them.  Thou 
hast  been  my  help,  be  thou  pleased  to  come  in 
now  to  my  succour,  and  show  thysell  graciously 
and  powerfully  on  my  behalf.  Do  it,  Lord,  for 
the  glory  of  thy  name,  for  the  merits  of  thy  Son, 
and  for  thy  own  mercy's  sake;  that  I  may  see  thy 
hand,  and  praise  thy  power,  and  admire  thy 
love,  and  adore  thy  grace  and  goodness,  while  J 
have  my  being.  Amen.  Amen. 

ft  Prayer  upon  the  Remembrance  of  former  Sins. 

OWHO  can  understand  his  errors!  Who 
can  call  to  mind  the  innumerable  offences 
of  all  his  life!  when,  ever  since  we  could  do  any 
thing,  alas!  what  have  we  done  that  is  free  from 
sin  !  but,  O  the  heinous  offences,  the  presumptu- 
ous sins,  the  great  transgressions  whereof  I  have 
been  guilty,  which  stare  me  in  the  face,  and 
recoil  upon  my  heart,  and  cast  down  my  soul 

S 


206         On  the  Remembrance  of  former  Sins. 

within  me;  because  I  have  committed  them  with 
so  many  foul  aggravating  circumstances,  against 
such  light  and  love,  means  and  mercies,  calls 
and  warnings,  convictions  and  experiences,  anil 
all  the  many  and  mighty  obligations  from  the 
Lord  which  I  have  had;  I  am  covered  with  confu- 
sion, O  my  God,  and  filled  with  bitter  remorse,  an<l 
ghastly  fears,  as  often  as  I  look  back  upon  such 
blots,  and  falls  and  scandals  of  my  life.  O,  if 
they  should  rise  up  in  the  judgment  against  me, 
they  could  riot  but  utterly  sink  and  ruin  me. 
But,  Lord,  my  God,  help  me  so  to  remember 
that  thou  mayest  forget  them;  so  to  charge  them 
upon  myself  that  thou  mayest  never  lay  them  to 
my  charge ;  so  to  keep  them  before  my  eyes,  to 
abase  and  humble  my  soul,  that  thou  mayest  hide 
thy  face  from  my  sins,  and  blot  out  all  my  ini- 
quities; especially  those  that  are  so  confounding 
and  terrible  to  my  thoughts.  O  let  me  ever 
walk  humbly  before  thee,  seeing  I  have  so 
shamefully  sinned  against  thee;  and  though  thou 
hast  kept  me  from  my  deserved  shame  in  this 
world,  O  let  not  thy  indulgence  embolden  me  to 
repeat  the  wickedness;  but  let  this  thy  goodness, 
0  my  God,  work  in  me  a  more  deep  and  serious 
repentance. 

And  thou,  Lord  Almighty,  who  alone  canst 
bring  good  out  of  evil,  be  thou  pleased  to  make 
my  past  falls  an  occasion  of  my  surer  standing 
for  the  future.  O  imbitter  the  pleasures  of  sin 
to  me,  and  hedge  up  the  ways  of  wickedness,  as 
with  briers  and  thorns,  before  me,  that  1  may 
loathe  as  much  as  ever  I  have  loved  the  offensive 
things,  and  never  return  again  to  such  folly.  O 
let  the  flames  wherewith  I  have  been  scorched, 
terrify  me  from  being  any  more  so  concerned, 


Under  Fears  and  Doubts,  Src.  207 

and  let  the  sense  and  remembrance  of  all  the 
former  offences  of  my  life  quicken  and  awaken 
me,  as  into  the  deeper  repentance  for  them,  so 
into  the  more  careful  circumspection  and  watch- 
fulness against  them,  that  I  may  not  be  so 
strange  to  thee,  my  Qod,  as  I  have  been,  nor 
trespass  upon  thee,  and  rebel  against  thee  as  I 
have  done,  but  pass  the  time  of  my  sojourning 
here  in  fear,  and  be  more  tender,  and  wary,  and 
vigilant,  all  the  days  of  my  life.  Amen.  Amen. 

A  Psayer  under  Fears  and  Doubts  of  our  Spiritual 
Condition. 

OLORD  my  God,  I  hope  thou  hast,  of  thy 
rich  mercy,  changed  and  renewed  me  in 
some  measure,  and  wrought  a  good  work  upon 
me:  bring  me  out  of  my  natural  and  damnable 
condition,  into  the  state  of  grace  and  salvation; 
for  yet  the  carnal  nature  is  so  predominant  over 
me,  arid  many  sins  so  lively  and  strong  in  me, 
and  still  I  find  the  good  things  of  thy  Spirit  in 
so  much  weakness  and  imperfection  upon  me, 
that  the  sorrows  of  my  heart  are  enlarged,  and 
my  soul  is  disquieted  within  me,  seeing  too  fre- 
quent cause  »to  question,  whether  my  spots  are 
the  spots  of  thy  children ;  whether  1  have  known 
the  grace  of  God  in  truth,  and  whether  I  do  not 
deceive  myself,  in  reckoning  upon  that  which  I 
neither  am  or  have. 

Mine  eyes  are  to  thee,  O  God  the  Lord,  leave 
not  my  soul  destitute.  From  the  ends  of  the 
earth  will  I  cry  to  thee ;  when  my  heart  is  over- 
whelmed within  me,  lead  me  to  the  rock  that  is 
higher  than  I.  O  Lord  rebuke  me  not  in  thine 
anger,  neither  chasten  me  in  thy  sore  •displea* 
sure.  Forsake  me  not,  O  my  G od  ;  be  not  far  from 


208  Under  Fears  and  Doubts^  SfC. 

me  ;  make  haste  to  lelp  me,  O  Lord  my  salvation. 
Attend  to  my  cry,  for  I  am  brought  very  low ; 
hear  me  ^speedily,  my  spirit  fails.  Save  me,  O 
God,  for  the  waters  are  come  into  my  soul ;  I 
sink  in  the  deep  mire,  where  there  is  no  stand- 
ing. Bring  my  soul  out  of  prison,  that  1  may 
praise  thy  name. 

O  show  me  the  true  state  of  my  soul,  and 
make  me  to  know  the  things  that  are  freely  given 
me  of  God  ;  and  deliver  me,  gracious  Lord,  from 
all  those  offensive  matters  that  provoke  thee  to 
hide  thy  face  from  me,  and  that  wrap  up  my 
soul  in  clouds  and  darkness,  and  make  me  so 
much  a  stranger  to  peace  and  comfort.  O  grant 
me  a  dear  discovery  of  the  evidences  of  my 
calling  and  election;  and  seal  a  comfortable  as- 
surance of  thy  blessed  love  in  Christ  Jesus  to  my 
soul.  O  thou  that  didst  bid  the  winds  and 
waves,  Peace,  be  still,  and  they  obeyed  thee;  set- 
tle my  discomposed  mind,  and  quiet  my  troubled 
breast,  and  bring  me  to  see  the  light  of  thy  coun- 
tenance, and  the  joy  of  thy  salvation.  O  thou  that 
art  of  power  to  establish  us,  be  pleased  to  esta- 
blish my  heart  with  grace,  and  let  me  be  rooted 
and  grounded  in  the  faith,  that  I  may  not  stagger 
through  unbelief,  but  hold  the  beginning  of  my 
confidence  stedfast  to  the  end.  Rejoice  the  soul 
of  thy  servant ;  for  unto  thee,  O  Lord,  do  I  lift 
up  my  soul ;  and  let  the  joy  of  the  Lord  be  my 
strength,  to  make  me  victorious  over  my  sinst 
and  always  to  abound  in  thy  work;  never  .pleas-* 
ed  so  much  with  any  thing  as  to  do  the  thing 
pleasing  to  my  God,  through  Jesus  Christ 
Jlmen. 


Under  the  Dread  of  God's  Wrath,  be.     209 

d  Prayer  under  the  Dread  of  God's   Wrath,   and 
everlasting  Damnation. 

O  LORD,  the  great  and  dreadful  God,  against 
whom  I  have  greatly  sinned ;  and  who  for 
my  *ins  art  justly  displeased!  when  I  consider 
the  holiness  of  thy  laws  and  the  strictness  of  thy 
justice;  and  when  I  reflect  upon  the  heinous 
and  innumerable  sins  of  my  heart  and  life,  my 
flesh  trembles  for  fear  of  thee,  arid  I  am  afraid 
of  thy  judgments.  O  who  may  stand  in  thy  sight, 
when  once  thou  art  angry !  who  can  bear  up  for 
ever  under  all  the  vials  of  thy  wrath,  to  the 
uttermost  poured  out,  when  thy  mercy  s'hall  be 
clean  gone,  and  thou  shalt  cast  off,  and  show 
favour  no  more!  yet  even  that  damnation  would 
be  my  woful  portion,  which  I  could  no  more 
avoid  than  abide,  shouldest  thou,  O  Lord,  enter 
into  judgment  with  me,  and  proceed  as  most 
justly  thou  mightest  against  me,  I  could  then 
hope  for  no  better,  but  to  be  deprived  of  all  the 
comforts  of  this  life,  and  to  be  delivered  into  the 
bitter  pains  of  eternal  death.  But  though  the 
wages  of  my  sins  be  that  death,  yet  the  gift  of 
God  is  eternal  life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.  O  for  his  dear  sake,  who  has  satisfied 
thy  justice,  and  appeased  thy  wrath  for  all  our 
offences,  even  thy  Son,  who  was  delivered  up 
into  the  hands  of  sinners,  that  he  mi^ht  deliver 
us  from  the  wrath  to  come,  and  suffered  and 
died  once,  that  we  might  not  suffer  and  die  for 
ever;  O  God,  the  Father  of  heaven,  have  mercy 
upon  me,  a  miserable  sinner;  and  from  thy  wrath, 
ar  d  from  everlasting  damnation,,  good  Lord 
deliver  me,  and  help  me  in  the  fear  of  thee.  my 
God,  to  flee  from  the  wrath  to  come,  and  to  rid 


210  Under  strong  Temptations. 

my  hands  and  my  heart  of  every  cursed  thing 
that  provokes  the  Lord  to  kill  and  cast  sinners 
into  hell. 

O  thou  blessed  Saviour  of  the  world,  save 
me  from  my  sins,  and  from  all  their  dismal  ef- 
fects, and  reconcile  me  to  God,  and  make  my 
peace  through  the  blood  of  thy  cross.  Thou 
tookest  upon  thee  our  mortal  nature,  that  thou 
mightest,  through  death,  destroy  him  who  had 
the  power  of  death,  and  deliver  them,  >vho 
through  fear  of  death,  were  all  their  life  time 
subject  to  bondage.  Have  compassion,  Lord,  I 
beseech  thee,  on  my  infirmities,  and  suffer  me 
not  to  fall  a  prey  to  my  own  fears,  but  he  surety 
for  thy  servant,  to  undertake  for  all  my  heavy 
scores,  wherein  I  have  run  myself  in  such  great 
arrears  to  the  justice  of  heaven ;  and  give  me 
everlasting-  consolation,  and  good  hope,  through 
grace,  and  being  justified  by  faith,  O  let  me  have 
peace  with  God  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 
Hide  not  thy  face  from  me,  O  my  Lord,  lest  I  be 
like  to  them  that  go  down  into  the  pit;  but  re- 
vive my  soul  with  the  sense  of  thy  love,  and  the 
hopes  of  thy  full  absolution,  and  everlasting  sal- 
vation, that  I  may  give  thee  thanks  from  the 
ground  of  the  heart,  and  show  with  gladness 
what  thou  hast  done  for  thy  redeemed,  and  joy- 
fully sing  thy  praise,  and  keep  in  thy  love,  look- 
ing for  the  mercy  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  to 
eternal  life.  Amen 

Ji  Prayer  under  strong  Temptations. 

HOLY  GOD!  I  desire   to  humble  myself 
here  before  thee,  for  that  continual  prone- 
ness  which  is  in  me  to  sin  against  thee,  that  I 
am  so  unlike  to  thee,  and  so  contrary  to  what 


Under  strong  Temptations.  Ill 

thy  holy  laws  require  me  to  be.  After  all  the 
great  things  thou  hast  done  forme,  alas!  how 
apt  am  1  still  to  spoil  and  undo  myself!  The 
malicious  tempter  is  laying  snares  for  me  every 
where;  and  the  things  of  this  world  are  still 
pressing  hard  upon  me,  either  to  terrify  me  out 
of  my  duty,  or  to  humour  me  into  my  ruin. 
And  O  how  ready  is  my  sinful  flesh  to  side  with 
the  cruel  enemy  against  my  own  soul!  In- 
numerable evils  have  compassed  me  about ;  my 
iniquities  have  taken  hold  upon  me,  so  that  I  am 
not  able  to  look  up;  they  are  more  than  the 
hairs  of  my  head,  therefore  my  heart  fails  me. 

0  the  sin  that  still  dwelleth  in  me,  that  is  so  nigh 
to  me,  that  does  so  easUy  beset  me,  and  is  so  apt 
to  prevail  against  me,  to  pull  me  away  from  the 
obedience  of  thy  blessed  will  and  to  engage  me 
in  forbidden  things,  displeasing  in  thy  sight,  and 
destructive  to  my  soul !     O  wretched  man  that 

1  am,  who  shall  deliver  me  from  the  body  of  this 
death?  when  the  custom  of  sinning  has  so  in- 
creased my  sinful  inclinations,  that  the  leopard 
may  as  soon  change  his  spots,  arid  the  Ethiopian 
his  skin,  as  I  who  am  so  accustomed  to  evil  can 
of  myself,  cease  from  it,  if  the  Lord  of  hosts  be 
not  with  me;  if  the  God  of  Jacob  be  not  my 
refuge. 

But  with  thee,  the  Almighty  God,  all  things 
are  possible;  yea,  thou  canst  as  easily  make  us 
holy  as  bid  us  be  so.  To  thee,  the  very  powers 
of  hell  are  weakness;  nothing  in  the  world  can 
resist  thy  will.  O  pity  thy  poor  tempted  crea- 
ture, and  give  me  not  up,  in  justice,  to  a  repro- 
bate sense,  and  to  vile  affections,  nor  to  such 
blindness  of  mind  and  hardness  of  heart,  as 
should  render  me  past  feeling;  nor  ever  punish 


112  *4  Prayer  for  Chastity. 

my  former  sins,  by  giving  me  over  to  their  sway 
and  power;  but  let  it  be  thy  gracious  pleasure, 
O  Lord,  that  all  my  prevailing  iniquities  may  flee 
and  perish  at  thy  presence.  O  give  out  the 
commanding  word  to  those  filthy  corruptions, 
hitherto  shall  ye  go  and  no  further.  Speak  death 
to  my  sins,  that  my  soul  may  live,  and  for  ever 
bless  thy  name.  Stop  and  heal  the  running 
sores,  that  they  may  no  more  break  out  as  they 
have  done,  to  the  dishonour  of  thy  name,  the 
wounding  of  my  conscience,  and  hindering  the 
concerns  of  my  own  and  others'  present  peace, 
and  eternal  bliss;  yea,  so  sanctify  my  nature,  O 
Lord,  and  renew  me,  even  in  the  spirit  of  my 
mind,  that  my  heart  may  rise  against  the  sinful 
evils,  and  that  1  may  hate  all  iniquity,  and  every 
false  way  ;  so  resisting  the  devil,  that  I  may  not 
conspire  with  the  deadly  enemy  of  souls  to  undo 
myself.  O  give  me  power  from  on  high,  to  set 
me  above  the  power  of  my  sins;  and  give  me 
grace  sufficient  to  turn  my  heart  against  the  love 
of  my  sins,  that  I  may  not  be  false  in  thy  cove- 
nant, nor  false  to  my  own  chief  interest,  but 
manfully  fight  thy  battles,  arid  approve  myself 
thy  faithful  soldier  and  servant  to  my  life's  end  ; 
that  being  so  faithful  unto  death,  thou  mayest 
give,  unto  me  the  crown  of  life,  and  take  me  at 
last  from  this  warfare  to  reign  with  thee,  world 
without  end.  Amen. 


Jl  Prayer  for  Chastity. 

OGOD  of  infinite  purity,  thou  hast  called  us, 
not  to  uncleanness,  but  to  holiness;  thou 
hast  commanded  us  to  be  holy  as  thou  art  holy; 
arid  hast  promised  to  none  but  the  pure  in  heart 
to  see  arid  enjoy  thee  in  the  beauties  of  holiness. 


A  Prayer  for  Chastity.  2 1 3 

and  the  joys  above.  O  how  shall  I,  a  polluted 
wretch,  show  myself  before  ihy  heavenly  Majesty, 
who  art  perfect  purity  ;  and  in  whose  sight  even 
heaven  itself  is  not  clean  ?  O  most  gracious  Lord ! 
look  not  upon  me  as  I  am  in  myself,  and  as  I 
through  my  sins  have  made  myself  vile,  even  in 
my  own  eyes ;  for  then  thou  canst  not  choose  but 
abhor  my  soul  and  pour  out  all  thy  wrath  upon 
me ;  but  wash  me  thoroughly  from  my  iniquity, 
and  cleanse  me  from  all  my  sin  and  guilt,  in  that 
fountain  opened  for  sin  and  for  uncleanness,  the 
precious  blood  of  the  Lamb  of  God,  slain  to  take 
away  the  sins  of  the  world.  Lord,  if  thou  wilt, 
thou  canst  make  me  clean;  O  create  a  clean 
heart  in  me,  and  say  to  my  sin-defiled  soul,  as 
thou  didst  to  the  leper,  I  will,  be  thou  clean, 
and  I  shall  be  cleansed  and  fitted  now  for  thy 
holy  service,  and  hereafter  for  thy  heavenly  glo- 
ry. O  my  God  !  cast  the  unclean  spirit  out  of 
thy  temple;  and  if  he  will  not  go  out  but  by 
prayer  and  fasting,  let  me  add  such  abstinence 
to  my  prayers,  as  may  help  to  starve  the  fleshly 
lusts  that  war  against  my  soul :  and  by  any  means 
help  me,  my  strength  and  my  Redeemer,  to  pos- 
sess my  vessel  in  sauctification,  and  honour;  not 
in  the  lust  of  concupiscence,  as  those  that  know 
not  God.  Holy  Lord,  chase  away  the  birds  of 
prey  that  would  devour  thy  sacrifice;  and  drive 
out  these  unclean  beasts  that  would  trample 
down  the  plantation  of  thy  grace  in  my  soul  O 
let  me  not  live  after  the  flesh,  lest  l  eternally 
die ;  but  by  thy  Spirit  so  mortify  the  deeds  of  the 
body,  that  I  may  for  ever  live ;  instead  of  doing 
the  works  of  the  flesh,  let  me  hate  the  very  gar- 
ment spotted  with  it ;  and  not  without  detestation 
once  name  the  filthy  lusts.  Help  me,  my  Godf 


214     For  the  Mortification  of  all  fleshly  Lusts. 

to  avoid  every  occasion  of  falling,  and  to  abstain 
from  all  appearance  of  evil,  and  so  to  delight  in 

rurity,  and  to  keep  myself  from  my  iniquity,  that 
may  lead  the  noble  spiritual  life  as  becomes 
the  child  of  my  heavenly  Father;  and  not  grieve 
thy  Holy  Spirit,  O  God,  but  be  pleasing  in  thy 
blessed  sight,  through  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

Jl  Prayer  for  the  Mortification  of  all  fleshly  Lusts. 

I  HAVE  vowed  and  promised  unto  thee,  my 
God,  to  renounce  all  the  sinful  lusts  of  the 
flesh,  and  am  devoted  as  holy  to  the  Lord ;  that 
having  put  on  Jesus  Christ,  I  should  not  make 
provision  for  the  flesh  to  fulfil  the  lust  thereof, 
but  cleanse  myself  from  all  filthiness  of  flesh  and 
spirit,  perfecting  holiness  in  the  fear  of  God  ;  but 
though  I  have  some  delight  in  the  law  of  God, 
after  the  inner  man,  yet  f  find  another  law  in 
my  members,  warring  against  the  law  of  my 
mind,  bringing  me  into  captivity  to  the  law  of 
sin,  which  is  in  my  members;  arid  this  I  ac- 
knowledge and  bewail  to  thee,  O  Lord  Almighty! 
who  alone  canst  set  me  free  from  the  lusts  that 
are  too  hard  for  me.  O  help  me,  Lord  God  of 
my  salvation,  against  the  power  of  those  prevail- 
ing iniquities,  and  purge  away  all  my  sins,  for 
the  glory  of  thy  name;  may  the  time  past  of  my 
life  suffice  to  have  served  my  own  lusts  and 
pleasures.  O  let  not  sin  any  longer  reign  in  my 
mortal  body,  that  I  should  obey  it  in  the  lusts 
thereof,  but  help  me,  Lord,  to  cut  off  the  right 
hand,  and  to  pluck  out  the  right  eye,  to  keep 
under  my  body,  and  to  bring  it  into  subjection, 
that  I  may  have  the  mastery  of  my  lusts,  and 
overcome  the  sins  that  have  so  often  overcome 
me.  O  mortify  and  destroy  in  me  every  rebel- 


For  the  Mortification  of  all  fleshly  Lusts.     2 1  fl 

lious  motion,  and  every  vicious  inclination  that 
exalts  itself  against  the  gospel  and  government  of 
Christ  Jesus;  that  gives satan  advantage  over  me, 
and  hinders  my  Saviour  from  reigning  as  a  king 
supreme  in  my  heart. 

Preserve  me,  Lord  most  holy,  from  all  those 
sinful  pleasures  that  would  make  me  fall  short 
of  the  heavenly  pleasures  which  are  at  thy  right 
hand  for  evermore.  O  let  me  not  lead  a  sen- 
sual life,  minding  the  things  of  the  flesh,  as  if 
they  were  the  only  esteemed  and  beloved  things; 
but  make  me  so  spiritually  minded,  that  I  may 
above  all  things,  favour  and  relish  the  things  of 
the  Spirit  of  God.  Let  not  sinful  flesh  and  lust, 
but  thy  heavenly  Spirit  and  grace,  have  the  pre- 
dominancy in  my  soul,  to  guide  and  govern  my 
heart  and  life;  especially  let  the  sins  to  which  I 
am  most  strongly  induced,  be  effectually  subdued. 
O  let  me  not  yield  myself  the  miserable  slave  of 
my  soul-ruining  lusts;  but  carry  myself  as  the 
wise  and  faithful  follower  of  my  heavenly  Lord 
and  Saviour;  and  as  thou  who  hast  called  me, 
art  holy,  so  make  me  holy  in  disposition,  and  i» 
all  my  conversation ;  such  a  lover  arid  follower 
rtf  holiness,  that  I  may  see  and  enjoy  the  Lord. 

0  gird  me  with  might  to  that  spiritual  conflict 
wherein  1  arn  engaged  ;  not  only  against  flesh  and 
blood,   but  infernal  foes,  too  strong  for  me  to 
deal  with,  that  through  Christ  strengthening  me, 

1  may  go  on  conquering  and  to  conquer  all  that 
withstands  thy  glory,  and  my  salvation,  till  satan 
be  bruised  under  my  feet ;  that  nothing  may  ever 
be  able  10  separate  me  from  the  love  of  God, 
which  is  in  Christ  Jesus,  my  Lord.     Amen. 


216        Before  the  Hearing  of  GodTs  Word. 

A  Prayer  before  the  Hearing  of  God's  Word. 

OMOST  blessed  Lord,  the  God  of  all  grace, 
who  art  pleased  to  send  out  thy  light  and 
thy  truth  among  us,  both  to  discover  our  sins 
unto  us,  and  also  to  make  the  way  of  life  and 
salvation  plain  before  us;  be'thou  pleased  also 
to  send  the  Spirit  of  thy  Son  into  our  hearts, 
that  he  who  is  the  author  may  also  be  the  inter- 
preter of  thy  word,  to  make  it  plain  to  our  un- 
derstanding, to  set  it  home  powerfully  upon  our 
hearts,  and  to  render  it  the  savour  of  life  unto 
our  souls.  The  Lord  open  our  ears,  and  quick- 
en our  attention,  to  receive  what  shall  be  deli- 
vered from  thy  word  with  carefulness  and  meek- 
ness, and  with  all  readiness  and  gladness,  and 
love  and  delight  in  it,  and  desire  to  come  on  and 
grow  by  it;  and  strengthen  our  memories  to 
treasure  up  and  retain  what  we  hear,  that  we 
may  not  let  it  slip,  without  making  our  benefit  of 
it,  and  being  the  better  for  it.  O  gracious  God  ! 
teach  us  to  profit,  and  make  our  improvements 
more  answerable  to  those  means  of  grace,  which 
through  thy  mercy  we  do  enjoy.  Let  the  word 
which  shall  sound  in  our  ears  also  sink  down  in- 
to our  hearts,  and  take  root  in  our  souls,  and 
produce  and  show  the  fruits  of  it  in  our  lives,  that 
we  may  not  be  foregetful  hearers, but  faithful  do- 
ers of  thy  holy  word.  Olet  the  immortal  seed  of 
this  heavenly  word,  beget  such  principles  of 
grace  and  holiness  in  our  hearts,  that  may  be  in 
us  as  a  well  of  water,  springing  up  to  everlasting 
life.  Make  us  so  obedient  to  thy  holy  precepts, 
that  we  may  also  inherit  the  glorious  promises  of 
thy  word.  O  let  our  teachers  be  taught  of  God ;  and 
direct  the  stewards  of  thy  mysteries  to  give  unto 


Jlfter  Hearing  the  Word.  217 

every  one  their  portion  in  due  season;  yea,  give, 
Lord,  (he  heavenly  benediction  and  increase 
upon  the  planting  and  watering  of  thy  servants, 
and  make  the  waters  of  thy  sanctuary  healing  to 
our  souls;  yea,  make  thy  word  as  fire  in  the 
mouths  of  thy  messengers,  and  set  home  the 
sword  of  the  Spirit  with  thy  own  hand,  making 
it  mighty  through  God,  to  the  pulling  down  of 
strong  holds,  and  subduing  all  oppositions  to  the 
obedience  of  Christ.  O  let  thy  Spirit  cause  thy 
word  to  do  thy  great  and  gracious  work  effectu- 
ally upon  all  our  hearts,  for  which  we  may  have 
reason  to  give  thee  praise  and  glory,  to  all  eter- 
nity. <Amen. 

Ji  Prayer  after  Hearing  of  the  Word. 

WE  bless  thee,  O  Lord,  the  living  God, 
who  boldest  our  souls  in  life,  and  provi- 
dest  for  them  the  bread  of  life,  that  food  of  thy 
holy  word,  by  which  we  live  more  and  better 
than  by  our  daily  bread.  It  has  now  been  deli- 
vered and  received;  but  the  blessing  is  in  thy 
hands,  O  gracious  God,  to  make  it  prosperous 
and  successful  to  the  gaining  and  saving  of  souls. 
O  wilt  thou  be  pleased  to  send  it  home  to  the 
heart,  and  there  make  it  to  stay  and  abide,  till  it 
has  done  thy  will,  and  wrought  thy  work,  to  build 
us  up  in  the  faith  of  Christ,  and  to  set  us  forward 
in  all  holiness  of  life  ;  to  make  every  hearer  such 
a  doer  of  thy  word,  that  we  may  be  all  blessed 
now  in  our  deed,  and  hereafter  for  ever  blessed 
in  the  joy  of  our  Lord. 

O  that  all  who  have  been  convinced  of  their 
sins  may  also  be  converted  to  thyself,  that  they 
may  not  only  think  of  the  holy  change,  but  re- 
solve upon  it,  and  go  through  with  it;  and  let  thy 


218  For  Increase  of  Grace. 

blessed  Spirit  so  prevail  with  them,  that  the  good 
motions  may  not  go  off  before  they  have  affected 
the  work  of  grace  in  them.  O  make  thy  word 
mighty,  through  God,  to  plant  thy  grace  where 
it  is  not;  to  increase  it  where  it  is,  and  to  guide 
and  govern  all  our  hearts  and  lives  in  thy  holy 
ways,  that  the  word  which  we  hear  may  do  us 
good,  and  still  bring  us  nearer,  and  make  usaore 
like  to  our  God;  that  we  may  find  our  know- 
ledge and  our  faith  not  only  to  come,  but  to  grow 
by  hearing,  and  may  so  hear  that  our  souls  may 
now  live  the  holy  life  of  grace,  and  hereafter  the 
blessed  life  of  glory,  for  evermore. 


A  Prayer  for  Increase  of  Grace. 

OGOD  of  all  grace,  who  both  quickenest  the 
dead,  and  after  thou  hast  given  life,  givest 
the  increase.  Thy  people  go  from  strength  to 
strength,  growing  in  grace,  till  they  appear  before 
thee  in  glory;,  and  the  path  of  the  just  is  as  the 
shining  light,  shining  more  and  more  to  the 
perfect  day.  But  O  Lord,  how  barren  and  un- 
fruitiul  have  I  ,been  among  the  trees  of  righte- 
ousness! and  how  little  have  I  made  my  profit- 
ing and  progress  appear  under  all  thy  gracious 
means,  and  abundant  mercies;  yea,  how  weak 
and  low  am  I  still  in  my  spiritual  estate!  O  how 
small  is  my  will  and  strength  to  that  which  is 
good!  how  much  am  I  behind  many  of  thy  ser- 
vants, who  have  not  had  the  helps  and  advan- 
tages which  I  so  long  have  enjoyed!  and  how 
little  is  it  to  be  seen  in  my  life  what  great  things 
the  Lord  has  done  for  my  soul  !  O  my  God,  I  have 
not  well  improved  the  talents  which  thou  hast  put 
into  my  hands,  nor  answered  the  care  and  kind- 
ness of  heaven,  which  I  have  so  long  experienced. 


For  Increase  of  Grace.  219 

Thou  hast  not  been  wanting  to  me,  O  good  Lord ! 
but  1  have  been  exceedingly  wanting  to  myself, 
and  to  that  duty  which  1  owe  to  my  God.  1  am 
ashamed  that  it  is  no  better  with  me;  that  so 
many  mercies  have  been  spilt  and  lost  upon  me. 
Forgive  ine,  O  my  Father,  and  repair  thy  holy 
image  in  me,  who  have  so  much  dishonoured  thee, 
and  disabled  and  spoiled  myself.  O  help  me 
still  more  and  more,  to  put  off  the  old  man,  which 
is  corrupt  according  to  the  deceitful  lusts;  and 
to  put  on  the  new,  which,  after  God,  is  created 
in  righteousness  and  true  holiness.  Whatever 
else  1  want,  Lord,  deny  me  not  thy  grace,  but  in- 
crease it  in  me,  and  discover  it  siill  more  and 
more  upon  me;  yea,  let  the  graces  of  thy  Spirit, 
that  accompany  salvation,  so  flourish  in  my  soul, 
that  the  peace  of  God,  which  passeth  all  under- 
standing, may  keep  my  heart  and  mind,  through 
Christ  Jesus, 

Blessed  Saviour!  who  earnest  into  the  world 
that  we  might  have  life,  and  have  it  more  abun- 
daiUty,  of  ihy  fulness  let  me  receive  grace  suf- 
ficient for  me,  to  make  me  strong  m  the  Lord, 
and  ready  to  every  good  work.  My  life,  my 
strength  and  my  Redeemer!  leave  me  not  under 
the  curse  of  barrenness,  to  stand  at  a  stay,  or  to 
decline  in  my  spiritual  estate;  but  as  thou  hast 
wrought  all  my  works  in  me,  establish,  O  God, 
that  which  thou  host  wrought  for  me,  and 
strengthen  the  things  which  remain  that  are 
ready  to  die,  and  cherish  all  the  seeds  of  grace 
sown  in  my  heart,  that  my  soul  may  prosper  and 
increase  with  the  increase  of  God,  as  a  watered 
garden,  and  as  a  spring  whose  waters  fail  not; 
growing  in  knowledge  and  grace,  and  abounding 
in  all  those  fruits  of  righteousness  which  are  by 


220  For  Quickening  Grace. 

Jesus  Christ,  to  the  glory  and  praise  of  God, 
that  so  1  may  be  fully  satisfied  of  the  truth  of 
tl'Y  grace  in  me,  by  its  growing  upon  me.  O  my 
Lord!  Carry  on  with  power  the  work  of  faith 
and  sanctification  in  my  soul,  that  my  sinful  cor- 
ruption, every  day,  like  the  house  of  Saul,  may 
grow  weaker  and  weaker;  and  thy  grace  in  me, 
every  day,  like  the  house  of  David,  may  grow 
stronger  and  stronger,  till  from  groaning  under 
sin,  the  body  of  this  death,  I  come  to  triumph 
over  all  that  opposes  and  hinders  the  progress 
of  my  spiritual  life:  and  as  thou  art  pleased  to 
afford  me  the  means  of  grace,  O  grant  me  the 
increase  of  thy  grace,  to  answer  the  end  of  all 
those  means,  that  in  the  use  of  them,  I  may  be 
made  still  wiser  and  holier,  and  better,  and  fitter 
for  thy  blessed  acceptance  in  Jesus  Christ,  my 
only  Saviour. 


A  Prayer  for  Quickening  Grace* 

I  ACKNOWLEDGE  and  bewail  before  thee, 
O  Lord,  the  living  and  all-seeing  God,  my 
sinful  dulness  and  indisposedness  for  the  duties 
of  thy  holy  service:  when  I  should  delight  in  the 
law  of  God,  and  serve  thee  with  gladness,  and 
make  it  my  meat  and  drink  to  do  the  will  of  my 
heavenly  Father;  O  how  cold  and  listless  am  I 
to  do  that  which  is  the  best  for  me,  arid  which 
does  most  nearly  and  eternally  concern  me.  I 
am  alive  to  the  world,  and  very  apt  to  be  trans- 
ported with  sensual  objects;  but  how  heavy  and 
dead  to  those  offices  of  attendance  on  my  Lord, 
which  are  the  glory  and  joy  of  all  the  worthies 
of  heaven.  My  soul  cleaves  to  the  dust  of  the 
earth;  quicken  me,  O  Lord,  according  to  thy 
word,  according  to  the  word  of  thy  precept, 


For  ability  to  acquit  ouisefrcs  as  we  ought.    221 

which  does  command  us  to  be  spiritually  mind- 
ed ;  to  abound  in  the  work,  and  not  to  be  sloth- 
ful in  business,  but  fervent  in  spirit,  serving  the 
Lord:  and  quicken  me,  O  my  Lord,  according 
to  the  word  of  thy  promise,  that  sin  shall  not 
have  dominion  over  thy  servants;  that  thou  wilt 
perfect  what  concerns  thy  people.  Dear  Lord! 
be  thou  pleased  to  perfect  that  which  concerns 
my  soul,  and  engage  the  love  of  my  heart  to  thy 
service;  and  make  me  to  delight  to  do  thy  will, 
O  God,  and  with  an  enlarged  heart  to  run  the 
way  of  thy  commands.  O  help  me  to  put  forth 
myself  with  vigour  and  activity  it)  thy  holy  ways, 
and  to  apply  myself  to  the  performance  of  thy 
blessed  pleasure,  not  only  because  I  must,  but 
because  it  is  the  desire  of  my  soul,  and  the  joy  of 
my  heart  to  be  so  taken  up  that  nothing  in  the 
world  may  give  me  so  much  cheerfulness  and 
sweet  satisfaction,  as  to  approve  my  heart  unto 
my  God,  and  my  ways  pleasing  in  thy  sight, 
through  Jesus  Christ.  Jlmen. 

Ji  Prayer  for  Ability  to  acquit  ourselves  as  we  ought, 
in  our  several  Places  and  Relations. 

OLORD  our  Lord !  thy  word  enjoins  us, 
wherein  we  are  called  therein  to  abide 
with  God.  And  this  is  the  duty  which  we  are 
especially  to  take  care  of,  next  to  the  care  of 
our  souls,  to  study  to  be  quiet,  and  to  do  our 
own  business,  that  we  may  provide  for  ourselves, 
and  for  our  dependents,  and  render  to  all  their 
dues,  and  not  be  burthensome,  but  helpful  to 
others.  O  thou  that  givest  skill  and  ability  for 
the  performance  of  those  offices  to  w:hich  thou 
callest,  teach  and  enable  me,  I  beseech  thee,  for 
the  work  of  my  place,  and  all  the  duties  of  my 


222  For  Grace  to  serve 

calling.  Good  Lord!  pardon  all  my  past  un- 
faithfulness and  negligence  herein,  and  direct 
and  bless,  and  accept,  and  assist  me  in  discharg- 
ing it  for  the  time  to  come.  O  make  me  so  con- 
tented with  what  I  get  by  honest  means,  that  I 
may  never  offer  to  go  beyond,  or  defraud  my 
neighbours  in  any  matter,  but  be  punctually  just 
in  all  my  dealings,  and  conscientiously  perform 
rny  duty  in  all  my  relations,  carrying  myself  as  I 
ought  towards  every  one  with  whom  i  am  any  way 
concerned  in  the  world,  whether  superior,  equal, 
,or  inferior,  offensive  to  none;  but,  as  J  have 
power  and  opportunity  for  it,  good  and  useful  to 
all.  O  let  me  not  walk  disorderly,  nor  be  guilty 
of  the  impertinence  and  mischief,  to  be  negli- 
gent at  home,  and  to  busy  myself  abroad  in  other 
men's  matters;  but  may  I  keep  my  own  station, 
and  with  quietness  work  and  eat  my  own  bread; 
and  provide  things  honest  in  the  sight  of  all  men, 
following  after  that  which  is  lovely  and  of  good 
report,  and  herein  exercising  myself  to  have 
always  the  conscience  void  of  offence  towards 
God,  and  towards  men;  yea,  whatever  any  may 
justly  expect  from  me,  help  me,  O  my  God,  to 
discharge  it  faithfully  and  acceptably ;  and  com- 
mand a  blessing,  Lord,  upon  all  my  honest  labours 
and  endeavours,  and  make  them  successful  to 
promote  my  own  and  others'  real  and  eternal 
good,  and  to  glorify  thy  blessed  name,  through 
Jesus  Christ.  Jlmen. 


Jl  Prayer  for  Grace  to  serve  the  Lord  with  Gladness. 

OMY  God!  thou  art  a  Lord  that  hast  plea- 
sure in  the  prosperity  of  thy  servants;  and 
thy  servants  have  all  the  greatest  reason  to  be 
most  highly  pleased  in  the  performance  of  thy 


the  Lord  with  gladness.  223 

service.  It  is  good  for  me  to  draw  nigh  to  God, 
in  whose  presence  is  fulness  of  joy;  and  the 
hearts  of  them  may  rejoice  that  seek  the  Lord  ; 
for  ttiou  dost  not  employ  us  but  to  oblige  us; 
not  for  any  advantage  to  thyself,  but  only  lor  our 
own  greatest  good  every  way,  that  it  may  go  well 
with  us,  both  here  and  for  ever.  O  my  Lord,  I 
am  full  of  trouble  and  confusion,  that  ever  I 
should  be  so  listless  as  I  have  been  to  thy  blessed 
work,  and  so  lifeless  in  it,  and  soon  weary  of  it, 
to  the  dishonour  of  thy  name,  and  the  reproach 
of  thy  service,  as  if  I  had  a  hard  master,  and  a 
doleful  work.  O  that  I  should  bear  as  a  burden 
that  which  should  be  the  solace  of  my  life,  and 
the  rejoicing  of  my  heart.  Forgive  me,  I  beseech 
thee,  good  Lord,  all  this  which  I  bewail  before 
thee,  and  heal  the  indisposedness  in  me,  which 
makes  thy  service  a  weariness  to  me;  and  so 
renew  my  spirit  and  draw  and  join  my  heart  to 
thy  blessed  self,  that  I  may  not  serve  thee  as  out 
of  compulsion,  but  inclination;  not  as  forcing 
myself,  but  loving  thy  work.  O  rid  my  mind  of 
that  tormenting  dread  which  makes  me  uneasy  in 
the  service  of  my  Lord:  and  give  me  a  heavenly 
heart  set  upon  the  heavenly  business,  and  such 
a  mighty  love  as  may  s\veeten  all  my  obedience, 
that  1  may  not  account  it  grievous  or  tedious, 
but  my  soul's  satisfaction  and  exceeding  joy.  O 
let  me  not  serve  thee,  rny  God,  with  the  spirit  of 
bondage  as  a  slave,  but  with  the  cheerfulness 
and  gladness  of  an  ingenuous  child,  sitting  down 
with  delight  under  thy  shadow,  delighting  myself 
in  the  Lord,  and  so  be  pleased  with  thy  work, 
that  my  services  may  also  be  pleasing  in  thy 
sight,  through  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

±*ii 


a* 


224       For  skill  to  carry  ourselves  aright. 

Jl  Prayer  for  Skill  to  carry  ourselves  aright  among  all 
with  whom  we  are  concerned  in  the  World. 

OLORD  my  God!  I  desire  to  humble  myself 
in  thy  sight  for  all  the  folly,  indecency,  and 
disorder  of  my  conduct;  that  I  have  so  frequently 
failed  in  it,  and  so  foully  miscarried  and  lost  my- 
self in  my  intercourse  with  my  neighbours,  that 
iny  example  has  too  often  tended  more  to  the 
hardening,  than  to  the  converting  of  sinners: 
and  that  1  have  lain  as  a  stumbling-block,  and 
rock  of  offence  in  the  way  of  my  brethren,  not 
only  prone  to  be  tempted  with  evil,  and  to  be 
overcome  myself,  but  also  becoming  a  tempta- 
tion and  snare  to  others,  so  as  to  draw  them  to 
sin,  or  to  embolden  them  in  it.  Though  thou 
hast  showed  me  what  is  good,  and  made  me  to 
know  better  things,  and  laid  the  greatest  en- 
gagement upon  me  to  be  faithful  in  thy  cove- 
nant, yet,  O  how  apt  have  I  been  to  lose  my 
relish  of  the  things  of  God  among  sinful  men ! 
how  apt  to  be  carried  into  folly  with  the  stream 
of  the  company,  to  fall  into  base  compliance,  arid 
consent  with  sinners,  and  follow  the  multitude  to 
do  evil. 

O  my  God !  give  me  repentance  and  pardon 
for  all  my  own  sins,  and  for  all  the  guilt  which  I 
have  contracted  in  being  accessary  to  the  sins 
of  others;  and  so  fortify  me  with  thy  grace, that 
I  may  not  be  in  such  danger  to  be  awed  or  se- 
duced out  of  my  religion;  that  I  may  never  be 
ashamed  of  Christ  before  men,  but  boldly  appear 
for  thy  truth  and  holiness,  even  in  the  face  of  an 
evil  and  faithless  generation.  O  teach  me  to 
walk  in  wisdom  towards  them  that  are  without, 
and  in  kindness  towards  them  that  are  within; 


For  skill  to  carry  ourselves  aright.         225 

and  without  offence,  in  prudence  and  usefulness, 
to  all.  Make  me  wise  in  the  choice,  and  in  the 
use  of  my  company,  that  they  may  not  be  to  me, 
nor  I  to  them,  an  occasion  of  falling;  but  that  we 
may  be  mutual  helps  and  edifiers  of  one  another, 
and  examples  of  all  that  is  good,  and  imitable 
and  praise-worthy.  O  great  Lord!  make  me  so 
faithful  to  thee,  and  to  my  own  conscience,  that 
no  conversation  with  any  in  the  world  may  dis- 
compose the  religious  frame  of  my  soul,  that  I 
may  not  be  startled  at  any  bold  censure  of  thy 
ways  and  wisdom,  nor  ever  draw  back  from  thee, 
for  the  contradiction  of  sinners;  but  cease  from 
man  whose  breath  is  in  his  nostrils;  for  wherein 
is  he  to  be  accounted  of.  O  turn  my  fear  of 
their  faces  into  love  of  their  immortal  souls,  who 
are  my  fellow-servants  in  thy  work,  and  fellow- 
travellers  to  our  long  home;  and  should  be  faith- 
ful, and  would  be  happy.  Arid  where  I  cannot 
promote  their  duty  and  felicity,  yet  grant,  O 
Lord,  that  they  may  not  hinder  mine;  that  where 
I  am  not  edified,  I  may  not  be  corrupted  by 
them. 

O  my  God !  may  thy  presence  ever  sway  me 
more  than  the  presence  of  any  men,  that  I  may 
count  it  a  small  thing  to  be  judged  of  them,  and 
not  be  determined  by  their  way  or  humour,  but 
regard  my  own  conscience  more  than  others' 
opinion,  and  do  all  in  the  sight  of  God,  heartily 
as  to  the  Lord ;  not  in  so  much  care  to  ingratiate 
myself  with  any  else  as  to  please  the  great  Judge 
of  all.  Yet  keep  thy  servant,  O  Lord,  from 
giving  scandal  and  offence  to  any;  that  I  may 
not  by  pride  and  passion,  by  vanity  and  indis- 
cretion, or  by  morosity  and  sour  opposition,  dis- 
parage my  profession,  nor  make  the  way  of 
truth  through  me  to  be  evil  spoken  of;  but  help 


226         For  grace  to  use  our  speech  aright. 

me,  my  God  and  Guide,  to  walk  circumspectly, 
and  to  speak  and  act  with  due  considrration  ot% 
all  times  and  places,  persons  and  circumstances, 
that  1  may  wisely  behave  myself,  and  guide  my 
affairs  with  discretion,  and  so  go  in  and  out 
among  men  upon  earth,  as  to  preserve  my  in- 
tegrity in  thy  sight,  and  have  my  conversation 
in  heaven,  arid  still  enjoy  that  most  blessed 
friendship  with  thee,  my  heavenly  Father,  and 
thy  dear  Son,  my  only  Saviour.  Amen. 

Jl  Prayer  for  Grace  to  use  our  Speech  might* 

OLORD  our  gracious  God!  who  hast  given 
us  reason  and  speech  to  express  our  minds 
to  one  another,  and  to  converse  comfortably  to- 
gether: What  great  cause  have  we  to  praise 
thee.  that  we  are  so  fearfully  and  wonderfully 
made!  and  our  tongues  that  are  our  glory,  and 
most  of  all  so,  when  with  them  we  set  forth  thy 

flory;  but  alas!  that  f  have  so  much  cause  to 
umble  myself  for  all  the  abuses  of  my  tongue; 
&ttd  that  I  have  so  many  Wa^s  perverted  the 
happy  privilege  of  speaking,  either  holding  my 
peace  where  1  should  have  spoken  to  thy  honour 
and  the  good  of  my  neighbour:  dumb  and 
tongue-tied  to  thy  praise  and  to  pious  conference 
with  thy  servants ;  or  else  pouring  out  words  to 
dishonour  thy  name,  to  wrong  my  own  soul,  and 
to  offend  and  injure  others.  Forgive  me,  ()  mer- 
ciful God,  I  beseech  thee,  all  my  sinful  silence, 
my  vain  and  idle  words,  and  my  evil  corrupt 
communication,  and  help  me  so  to  speak,  as  to 
express  thy  grace  in  my  heart,  and  to  minister 
the  same  to  my  hearers.  Set  a  watch,  O  Lord, 
before  my  mouth,  and  keep  the  door  of  my  lips, 
that  nothing  thence  may  proceed  but  what  shall 
be,  some  way  or  other,  good  for  the  use  of  edify- 


For  grace  to  use  our  speech  aright.         227 

ing.  Help  me  to  keep  my  mouth  as  with  a 
bridle,  when  I  am  provoked  to  speak  unadvisedly 
nithmylipx,  and  let  no  profane  or  filthy  speech- 
es proceed  out  of  my  mouth,  nor  any  thing  be 
said  by  me,  lhat  ought  not  to  be  named  among 
Christians. 

O  Lord,  open  thou  my  lips,  that  my  mouth 
may  shew  forth  thy  praise;  make  me  forward  to 
speak  for  thee,  and  for  the  service  of  thy  truth, 
and  the  glory  of  thy  name ;  but  as  slow  to  speak 
evil,  and  to  defile  myself,  or  to  hurt  my  neigh- 
bour. Give  me,  Lord,  a  considerate  mind  to 
weigh  what  is  fit  to  be  said ;  and  make  me  wise 
and  serious,  sober  and  modest,  pious  and  chari- 
table in  what  I  speak,  that  it  may  be  without 
offence,  but  not  without  some  profit  to  the  part- 
ners in  my  conversation.  O  fill  my  heart  with 
such  grace,  that  out  of  the  good  treasure  I  rnay 
be  ever  and  anon  producing  somewhat  to  oblige 
the  company,  and  to  advance  thy  glory ;  and 
put  such  thoughts  into  my  mind,  and  such  words 
inlo  my  mouth,  that  my  tongue  may  be  as  the 
pen  of  a  ready  writer,  to  utter  things  seasonable 
and  acceptable,  for  the  benefit  of  my  associates; 
arid  that  I  may  never  abuse  the  liberty  of  speech 
into  the  licentiousness  of  vain  or  evil-speaking; 
but  turn  and  employ  it  to  the  wise  and  good  and 
worthy  ends  for  which  it  was  given;  and  speak 
of  and  for  thy  testimonies,  even  before  the  great- 
est, without  being  ashamed. 

O  Lord!  restrain  the  blasphemous  and  brutish 
generation,  that  set  their  mouths  against  heaven, 
and,  out  of  those  open  sepulchres,  belch  forth 
impieties  and  impurities,  to  dishonour  him  that 
made  them;  to  grieve  the  souls  of  thy  servants, 
and  to  spread  the  contagion  of  their  ungodliness. 


228  The  convinced  sinner's  prayer. 

O  fill  their  face  with  shame  for  what  they  have 
done,  and  their  hearts  with  dread,  to  stop  them 
from  proceeding  so  any  farther.  Confound  the 
viperous  brood  that  hiss  and  vent  their  venom 
against  thy  holy  ways,  and  give  them  other 
tongues,  that  they  may  use  thy  gifts  to  better 
purpose.  O  let  the  lying  lips  be  put  to  silence, 
that  speak  grievous  things  proudly  and  con- 
temptuously against  the  righteous.  And  let  such 
as  fear  thee,  and  think  upon  thy  name,  speak 
often  to  one  another;  so  as  10  promote  and  set 
forward  their  common  edification  arid  consolation, 
and  eternal  salvation,  through  thy  goodness  to 
them  in  Jesus  Christ.  Jimen. 

The  convinced  Sinners  Prayer. 

HEARKEN  to  the  voice  of  my  cry,  my  King 
and  my  God;  for  unto  thee  will  I  pray; 
but  wherewithal  shall  I  appear  before  the  Lord, 
and  bow  myself  to  the  most  high  God,  whose 
holy  laws  I  have  broken,  and  whose  just  displea- 
sure I  have  incurred!  1  acknowledge  my  trans- 
gression, O  Lord,  and  my  sin  is  ever  before  me. 
My  iniquities  are  gone  over  my  head,  as  a  sore 
burden;  they  are  too  heavy  for  me  to  bear.  When 
thou  with  rebukes  dost  chasten  man  for  iniquity, 
thou  makest  his  beauty  to  consume  away  like  a 
moth.  My  sin  now  has  found  me  out;  and  that 
which  once  I  thought  too  little  to  be  repented, 
seems  now  too  great  to  be  pardoned.  I  flattered 
myself  in  my  own  eyes,  till  my  iniquity  is  found 
to  be  hateful.  I  thought  I  was  rich  and  increased 
with  sjoody,  and  had  need  of  nothing;  but  now  I 
find  that  I  am  miserable,  and  wretched,  and  poor, 
and  blind,  and  naked  ;  so  that  there  is  nothing 
but  disorder  and  ruin  in  my  soul.  I  have  undone 


The  convinced  sinner's  prayer.  229 

myself;  but  to  work  my  own  recovery  I  have  no 
sufficiency.  O  how  wicked  have  I  been  to  allow 
myself  in  the  way  and  mind  which  is  enmity 
against  God!  How  ignorant,  yet  how  confident! 
How  vile,  yet  how  arrogant!  In  what  need  of 
mercy,  yet  how  unmerciful ;  how  sinful,  yet  how 
impenitent:  how  bold  in  the  sins  where  con- 
science reproved  me,  but  how  cold  in  the  cause 
where  thy  Spirit  encouraged  me  !  Oh  the  spoils, 
and  ruins,  and  desolations  which  rny  sins  have 
made  in  my  soul;  how  have  they  darkened  my 
mind,  perverted  my  will,  defaced  my  affections, 
disordered  my  passions,  hardened  my  heart,  and 
seduced  it  away  from  my  most  good  and  ever 
blessed  God,  to  cleave  unto  the  things  displeas- 
ing in  thy  sight,  and  destructive  to  my  soul! 

There  is  no  hiding  any  thing  from  thee,  the  in- 
finite God,  who  fillest  heaven  and  earth. —  What 
ehall  I  say  unto  thee,  Lord  ?  I  scarce  know  how 
to  say  bad  enough  of  myself.  O  wo  is  me  that 
I  have  done  so  foolishly  and  wickedly!  whither 
shall  I  betake  myself  when  against  thee,  O  Lord, 
I  have  so  sinned,  and  done  such  evil  in  thy  sight! 
Thou  art  the  offended  Majesty,  out  of  whose 
reach  I  cannot  escape,  and  under  whose  judg- 
ments I  can  never  be  able  to  bear  up.  A  guilty 
consciousness  should  make  me  afraid  to  come 
unto  thee;  yet  I  know  there  is  nothing  but  certain 
destruction  to  keep  away  from  thee;  and  though 
there  is  no  peace  to  the  wicked  so  continuing;  yet 
if  the  wicked  forsake  his  way,  and  the  unrighte- 
ous man  his  thoughts,  and  return  to  the  Lord,  thy 
promise  then,  O  God,  is  to  have  mercy  upon  him, 
and  abundantly  to  pardon.  I  have  none  to  seek 
to  for  remedy  against  my  sins,  but  unto  the  just 
and  holy  God,  against  whom  I  have  grievously 


230  The  convinced  sinner's  prayer. 

sinned ;  and  how  shall  I  stand  in  thy  sight,  O  Lord? 
who  hatest  and  condemnest  the  works  of  dark- 
ness, and  the  workers  of  iniquity,  whose  wrath 
against  sin  burns  as  deep  as  hell,  arid  as  long  as 
eternity. 

I  submit,  great  Lord,  to  thy  offended  Majesty! 
and  I  have  no  hopeful  prospect,  looking  any  way, 
but  to  thy  Almighty  power,  thy  superabounding 
grace,  and  thy  ever-enduring  mercy,  who  at  the 
lowest  can  raise,  and  at  the  worst  art  able  to  re- 
lieve us.  Nothing  is  too  hard  for  thee  to  effect; 
the  most  wretched  case  is  not  past  thy  cure; 
though  our  sins  be  as  scarlet,  thou  canst  make 
them  as  white  as  snow;  though  they  be  red  like 
crimson,  thou  canst  make  them  as  wool;  yea, 
thou  hast  found  a  ransom,  and  laid  help  upon  one 
that  is  mighty,  and  able  to  save  to  the  uttermost 
all  that  corne  to  God  through  him.  If  I  had  not 
sinned,  I  had  no  need  of  such  a  Redeemer;  but 
they  were  sinners  whom  he  came  to  save ;  and 
therefore,  to  the  Lord  Jesus  I  look  with  the  de- 
sire of  my  soul  to  find  a  healing  for  this  sinful 
soul  of  mine,  in  the  precious  blood  of  his  cross. 
O  good  God!  when  my  sins  cry  to  thee  for  ven- 
geance, be  thou  pleased  to  hear  his  blood  and 
merits  pleading  and  interceding  for  my  soul ;  arid 
speaking  better  things  in  my  behalf  than  1  am 
able  to  do  for  myself,  in  all  my  prayers. 

Behold,  O  merciful  Lord,  a  miserable  object 
on  which  to  glorify  thy  power  and  compassion, 
thy  wonderful  work,  and  great  salvation!  O  look 
upon  me  in  my  blcod,  and  bid  me  live.  Speak 
death  to  my  sins,  that  my  soul  may  live,  and  for 
ever  bless  thy  name.  Turn  away  thy  face  from 
my  sins,  and  blot  out  all  my  iniquities.  For  thy 
name's  sake,  O  Lord,  pardon  my  sin,  for  it  is 


The  convinced  sinner's  prayer  231 

great;  too  great  for  any  but  the  God  of  infinite 
goodness  and  love  ever  to  discharge  me  from. 
O  magnify  thy  all-sufficiency  to  help  me  out  in 
this  my  \voful  misery.  Make  the  happy  experi- 
ment -:pon  my  poor  soul,  how  great  things  worthy 
of  God  thou  canst  do;  that,  where  sin  hath 
abounded  thy  grace  may  much  more  abound. 
Return,  O  Lord,  deliver  my  soul;  O  save  me  for 
thy  mercy's  sake :  save  me  from  the  guilt  and 
filth,  from  the  power  and  curse  of  all  my  sins. 
Arid  thou,  Lord,  that  knowest  how  to  deliver, 
make  me  some  way  to  escape  out  of  the  despe- 
rate straits  and  perplexities  into  which  my  sins 
have  cast  me,  that  my  iniquities  may  not  hang 
upon  me  to  be  my  ruin;  but  that  they  be  taken 
away  and  forgiven,  and  washed  out  with  the 
blood  of  Jesus  Christ.  O  turn  thou  me,  Lord 
God  of  my  salvation,  and  I  shall  be  turned  from 
my  sins,  and  from  this  present  evil  world,  more 
effectually  and  fully  to  thy  blessed  self.  O  give 
me  such  conviction  as  may  end  in  sound  conver- 
sion; and  let  me  experience  in  myself  that  grace 
of  God  which  bririgeth  salvation.  I  want  thy 
grace,  O  Lord;  and  want  it  I  shall  for  ever,  if 
thou  be  not  pleased  to  look  graciously  upon  me 
in  my  blessed  Redeemer.  But  thou  wilt  never 
have  the  less,  how  much  soever  thou  bestowest 
and  thou  canst  not  bestow  thy  grace  upon  any 
one  that  more  needs  it.  O  God  of  all  grace,  tha> 
keepest  mercy  for  thousands,  hast  thou  not  a 
blessing  for  me  ?  a  spiritual  heavenly  blessing! 
For  thy  dear  Son,  my  only  Saviour's  sake,  let  me 
find  such  grace  in  thy  sight.  O  get  thee  ever- 
lasting glory  in  so  obliging  the  unworthy:  and 
whatever  I  want,  O  deny  me  riot  that  saving  grace 
which,  though  a  precious  treasure  that  I  am  bold 


232  For  the  troubled  soul. 

to  ask,  yet  it  is  not  too  great  or  good  for  the  God 
infinitely  great  and  good  to  give.  O  do  that 
work  of  thy  grace  thoroughly  upon  my  heart, 
for  which  1  may  have  cause  to  glorify  thy  name 
for  evermore.  *flmen. 


A  Prayer  for  the  troubled  Soul. 

OGOD  of  the  spirits  of  all  flesh !  thou  know- 
est  the  grievous  torment  of  a  wounded  spirit; 
and  hast  promised  not  to  break  the  bruised  reed, 
nor  quench  the  smoking  flax:  Have  pity,  Lord 
of  love,  upon  thy  disconsolate  servant,  whose 
spirit  is  sore  broken,  and  overwhelmed  within 
him;  and  relieve  and  heal  and  comfort  him  with 
thy  peace,  and  some  tokens  for  good,  that  thou 
hast  thoughts  of  love  and  everlasting  mercy  to- 
wards him.  O  blessed  Jesus,  who  callest  to  thee 
the  labouring  and  heavy  laden  sinners,  with  the 
promise  of  rest  for  their  souls,  give  some  glimpse 
of  thy  mercy  and  faith  in  thy  merits  and  promises 
to  this  poor  troubled  soul,  cast  down  with  the 
sense  of  his  sin,  and  the  fear  of  thy  wrath.  The 
sacrifices  of  God  are  a  broken  spirit:  a  broken 
and  a  contrite  heart,  O  God,  thou  wilt  not  des- 
pise. O  hide  not  thy  face  from  thy  servant, 
nor  cast  him  away  from  thy  presence  in  displea- 
sure; but  speak  peace  to  him,  and  cause  thy 
grace  to  shine  upon  him.  O  God  of  consolation, 
be  thou  pleased  to  cheer  him  up  with  the  hope 
and  belief  of  thy  pardon  and  acceptance,  and 
give  him  a  comfortable  affiance  in  thee,  and  the 
witness  of  thy  Spirit  with  his  spirit,  to  persuade 
him  that  he  is  the  child  of  God,  whom  thou  lovest 
though  thou  chastenest,  and  with  thy  terrors  pre- 
parest  him  for  thy  comforts.  O  that  he  may  see 
love  in.  the  rod,  and  take  it  as  the  chastisement 


For  ths  troubled  soul  233 

of  a  kind  Father,  and  not  the  vengeance  of  an 
incensed  Judge;  ajid  that  he  may  find  this  humi- 
liation working  for  his  everlasting  consolation; 
seeing  they  that  mourn  are  blessed,  and  shall 
be  comforted,  and  such  as  sow  in  tears  shall 
reap  in  joy.  O  that  his  sorrow  may  be  the  godly 
sorrow  which  works  repentance,  not  to  be  re- 
pented of:  that  it  may  have  such  a  happy  issue, 
and  end  in  unspeakable  glorious  joy;  but  let  him 
not  sorrow  as  one  without  hope,  seeing  the  trou- 
ble for  sin  is  a  preservative  from  the  damnation 
of  hell;  and  such  as  are  now  in  glory  went  this 
very  way  to  heaven,  working  out  their  salvation 
with  fear  and  trembling;  and  so  feeling  the  bur- 
den of  sin  here,  that  they  might  not  lie  under  it 
for  ever.  Therefore,  though  he  walk  in  darkness, 
and  has  no  light,  yet  let  him  trust  in  the  name  of 
the  Lord,  and  stay  upon  his  God. 

O  Lord !  rebuke  him  not  in  thy  anger,  neither 
chasten  him  in  thy  sore  displeasure;  but  return 
and  set  him  free  from  the  heavy  pressure  now 
upon  him.  Be  pleased,  O  Lord,  to  deliver  him; 
O  Lord  make  haste  to  help  him.  Quicken  him 
for  thy  name's  sake:  and  for  thy  righteousness 
sake  bring  his  soul  out  of  trouble.  Thou  hast 
showed  him  great  and  sore  troubles;  be  thou 
pleased  to  revive  him  again,  that  he  may  rejoice 
in  thee.  Show  him  thy  mercy,  O  Lord,  and  grant 
him  thy  salvation.  O  refresh  him  early  with  such 
thy  mercy,  that  he  may  be  glad,  and  rejoice  in 
thee  all  his  days,  when  thou  hast  considered  his 
trouble  as  thou  hast  known  his  soul  in  adversity, 
that  thy  name  may  have  the  glory,  and  his  soul 
the  comfort  of  thy  seasonable  relief,  and  thy 
sweet  abundant  mercies  in  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

U2 


234       For  the  enjoyment  of  God's  presence. 

jl  Prayer  for  the  Enjoyment  of  God's  gracious  Prc« 
sence  and  divine  Communion. 

OTHOU  infinite  Majesty  of  heaven  and 
earth,  who  canst  no  where  be  absent,  but 
filleth  all  things!  no  place  is  so  desolate  as  to  be 
without  thee:  no  men  so  bad,  but  they  live  and 
move,  and  have  their  being  in  thee.  Yea,  the 
very  devils  are  not  out  of  thy  reach,  but  aware 
of  thy  presence,  though  to  their  cost;  and  even 
in  hell  thou  a  rt  there ;  but  to  thy  people  and  saints, 
that  are  of  the  household  of  God,  and  bear  thy 
image,  and  know  thy  voice,  and  how  to  prize  thy 
love,  to  them  thou  art  pleased  to  open  and  com- 
municate thyself  in  an  especial  favourable  manner, 
and  to  go  in  and  out  among  them  as  the  children 
of  thy  family;  and,  in  the  most  wonderful  con- 
descension, to  treat  them  as  thy  friends  and  fa- 
vourites ;  to  revive  their  spirits  and  to  cheer  their 
hearts;  and  thou  hast  promised  that  thou  wilt  not 
leave  them  comfortless;  but  come  to  them  and 
dwell  in  them,  and  be  their  God,  and  let  them 
be  thy  people.  Thus  thou  dost  manifest  thyself 
to  them,  though  not  to  the  world;  for  the  ungod- 
ly are  far  from  thee,  and  live  without  God  in  the 
world.  Our  sins,  alas!  do  make  the  cursed  wall 
of  separation  between  thee  and  our  souls;  and 
for  my  sins,  O  how  justly  mightest  thou,  Lord, 
forsake  me,  and  cast  me  off  in  displeasure,  and 
hide  away  thy  face,  and  keep  at  a  distance  from 
me,  and  abandon  me  over  to  my  wretched  self, 
as  an  enemy  whom  thou  canst  not  love,  but  dis- 
dainest  to  look  upon. 

But  though  my  ill  deserts  at  thy  hands  may  well 
provoke  such  thy  indignation  against  me,  yet  let 
my  forlorn  estate  without  thee  move  thy  com- 


For  the  enjoyment  of  GocTs  presence.       235 

passion  towards  me,  and  where  thou  canst  not  take 
pleasure  in  me,  yet,  Father  of  mercies,  have  pitj 
on  me,  and  cast  me  not  away  from  thy  presence, 
norabhor,nor  forsake  me  forthy  name's  sake,and 
for  the  sake  of  that  mercy  which  has  moved  thee 
to  do  so  much  already  for  me,  and  so  far  to  dis- 
cover thy  grace  upon  me.  O  come  to  me,  and 
make  me  such  as  that  thou  mayest  abide  with  me, 
and  rejoice  over  rne  to  do  me  good.  My  soul  is 
as  a  desolate  wilderness,  a  confused  chaos;  yea, 
even  the  image  of  hell  without  thee,  my  God: 
while  thou  art  not  with  my  spirit,  I  live  wicked- 
ly to  thy  dishonour,  and  I  know  not  how  soon  I 
shall  die  wretchedly,  to  my  own  eternal  undoing, 
if  thou  cast  not  an  eye  of  pity  upon  me;  if  thou 
make  not  haste  in  mercy  to  help  me.  O  Ema* 
nuel,  God  with  us!  for  thy  mercy's  sake,  for  thy 
promise  sake,  for  my  misery's  sake,  see  me 
lying  afar  off,  and  bring  me  nigh  through  the  blood 
of  thy  cross.  O  bring  me  out  of  my  strangeness 
to  thee,  and  my  distance  from  thee,  that  I  may 
be  safe  under  the  shadowr  of  thy  wings,  and  hap- 
py in  the  solace  of  thy  love. 

If  thou  reject  me,  O  my  God,  what  company 
or  comforts  of  the  world  can  then  avail,  or  make 
any  recompense  for  the  loss  of  thy  favour,  in 
which  is  life,  and  without  which  I  am  dead  while 
I  live,  and  shall  be  for  ever  accursed  when  I  die. 
But  if  thou  he  with  me,  and  lift  up  the  light  of 
thy  countenance  upon  me,  I  shall  have  heavenly 
fellowship,  and  overflow  with  unspeakable  joy. 
Even  in  the  absence  of  all  other  friends  and  com- 
forts, 1  shall  riot  need,  I  shall  not  desire  them, 
when  I  can  go  to  God  my  exceeding  joy,  and  be 
taken  up  with  my  blessed  Lord,  in  whose  pre- 
sence is  fulness  of  joy.  O  blessed  are  they  whom 


236       For  the  enjoyment  of  God^s  presence* 

thou  choosest  and  causes!  to  approach  so  nigh 
unto  thee,  O  Lord,  and  who  are  so  highly  favoured 
by  thee,  whose  gracious  presence  can  make  the 
poorest  cottage  better  than  the  stateliest  palace, 
and  fill  the  hearts  of  thy  servants  with  such  di- 
vine delights,  to  which  the  greatest  men  of  the 
world  are  strangers.  O  what  manner  of  love  is 
this,  that  the  great  God  of  heaven  should  vouch- 
safe to  visit  and  reside  with  poor  mortals  on  earth! 
And  O  that  my  soul  were  fit  to  be  the  habitation 
of  the  King  of  glory.  But,  Lord,  how  unworthy 
am  I  that  thou  shouldest  come  under  my  roof. 

0  blessed  Jesus,  be  thou  pleased  to  regard  my 
undone  state  without  thee,  and  my  restless  long- 
ings after  thee,  and  be  pleased  to  come  unto  me, 
dear  Lord,  not  because  I  deserve,  but  because  I 
need  thee;  not  for  my  merits,  but  for  thy  owrn, 
who  art  worthy;  for  whose  sake  I  should  be  so 
favoured  from  on  high.     My  Lord  and  my  God, 
whom  have  I  in  heaven  but  thee?  and  there  is 
none  upon  earth  that  I  desire  besides  thee.     O 
be  not  as  a  stranger  to  the  soul  in  which  thou 
hast  planted  an  inclination  to  serve  thee,  but 
bless  and  honour  me  with  that  divine  fellowship 
of  which  thou  hast  made  me  not  only  capable, 
but  desirous ;  and  give  me  the  satisfaction  to  find 
what  thou  hast  given  me  a  heart  to  seek;  yea, 
give  me  grace,  O  my  Lord,  to  go  on  seeking  till 

1  find  thee  whom  my  soul  desires  above  all  to 
love;  let  me  endure  any  thing  easier  than  thy  ab- 
sence and  displeasure,   and  desire  nothing   so 
much  as  thy  presence  and  favour. 

And  be  not  thou  far  from  me,  O  my  God,  but 
let  me  experience  thy  gracious  presence  with  me, 
and  the  goodness  of  the  Lord  passing  before  me- 
Lord  Jesus,  be  with  my  spirit,  and  dwell  in  my 


For  heavenly  comforts.  237 

heart  by  faith;  as  thou  hast  promised  to  be  with 
thy  lovers  and  followers  always,  even  to  the  end 
of  the  world;  Lord,  for  thy  mercy's  sake,  blot 
out  my  sins;  and  then,  for  thy  promise  sake,  come 
and  visit  my  soul.  O  make  me  such  as  I  should 
be  towards  thee,  and  such  as  thou  mayest  take 
pleasure  in  me;  and  then  show  thyself  unto  me 
with  the  favour  which  thou  bearest  to  thy  people; 
and  may  thy  gracious  abode  with  me  now  on 
earth,  be  to  me  a  comfortable  earnes^of  my  glo- 
rious abode  with  thee  for  ever  in  thy  heavenly 
kingdom.  Be  with  me,  O  my  Saviour,  every 
where,  and  at  all  times,  in  health  and  in  sickness, 
in  prosperity  and  trouble,  in  all  estates,  and  in 
all  events  and  circumstances  of  my  life;  to  sanc- 
tify and  sweeten  to  me  whatever  befalls  me;  and 
never  leave  nor  forsake  me  in  my  present  pilgrim- 
age here,  till  thou  hast  brought  me  safe  through 
all  trials  and  dangers  to  be  ever  with  the  Lord; 
there  to  live  in  thy  sight,  and  love,  and  gloryt 
world  without  end.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  for  heavenly  Comforts. 

OMOST  blessed  Lord,  the  God  of  all  con- 
solation, who  comfortest  those  that  are  cast 
down,  and  givest  such  peace  and  joy,  as  the 
world  can  neither  give  nor  take  away;  I  confess 
myself  unworthy  of  so  much  as  any  good  look 
from  thy  gracious  eye,  or  any  glimpse  of  the  light 
of  thy  countenance,  to  be  lifted  up  upon  my  soul. 
I  deserve  to  be  in  heaviness  for  my  sins,  to  groan 
under  the  oppressive  burden,  even  all  my  days, 
and  at  last  to  go  down  in  sorrow  to  my  grave; 
but  because  thou  knowest,  Lord,  our  danger  to 
surfeit  on  the  pleasures  of  sin,  when  thou  with- 
holdest  heavenly  consolation  from  us;  and  that 


238  For  heavenly  comforts. 

the  joy  of  the  Lord  is  our  strength,  to  carry  us  on 
with  fidelity  and  alacrity  in  the  way  of  our  duty: 
I  beseech  thee,  O  Lord  of  love,  to  speak  peace 
to  my  conscience,  and  say  to  my  soul,  that  thou 
art  my  salvation:  to  fortify  me  against  the  stolen 
feinful  pleasures,  and  to  engage  my  heart  to  a 
faithfulness  in  the  covenant  of  my  God;  I  beg  of 
thee  some  tokens  of  thy  love  to  me,  some  disco- 
veries of  the  light  of  thy  countenance  upon  me, 
some  experience  of  the  joy  of  thy  blessed  Spirit 
in  me;  my  soul  thirsteth  for  thee,  my  God,  to  see 
thy  power,  and  thy  glory,  so  as  I  have  seen  thee 
in  the  sanctuary.  How  long  wilt  thou  forget  me, 
O  Lord,  forever?  How  long  wilt  thou  hide  thy 
face  from  me?  How  long  shall  I  take  counsel  in 
my  soul,  having  sorrow  in  my  heart  daily?  O 
cause  thy  face  to  shvie  upon  me,  let  my  heart  re- 
joice in  thee,  because  I  have  trusted  in  thy  holy 
name.  Let  my  mouth  be  filled  with  thy  praise, 
and  with  thy  honour  all  the  day  long;  and  let  my 
soul  be  satisfied  as  with  marrow  and  fatness, 
when  I  praise  thee  with  joyful  lips. 

Whether  I  come  in  or  be  left  out,  in  the  distri- 
bution of  thy  common  favours,  which  thou  scat- 
terest  with  an  indifferent  hand  amongst  all  sorts 
of  men,  O  remember  me,  Lord,  with  the  favour 
which  thou  bearest  to  thy  people,  and  visit  me 
with  thy  salvation;  that  I  may  see  the  good  of  thy 
chosen,  that  I  may  rejoice  in  the  gladness  of  thy 
nation,  and  glory  with  thy  inheritance.  O  thatl 
may  experience  the  joy  and  peace  in  believing, 
and  rejoice  in  Christ  Jesus,  and  count  thy  love 
better  than  wine,  and  prefer  it  above  my  chiefest 
joy.  Seeing  the  work  of  righteousness  is  peace, 
and  the  effect  of  it  quietness  and  assurance  for-  * 
ever!  O  make  me  the  true  and  faithful  subject  of 


Praise  for  a  converted  sinner.  239 

that  spiritual  kingdom,  which  is  righteousness 
and  peace,  and  joy  in  the  Holy  Ghost.  O  let 
me  so  taste  Jthat  the  Lord  is  gracious,  and  give 
me  such  feelings  of  thy  Spirit's  operation  in  me; 
such  witness  with  my  spirit,  such  hopes  of  tlay 
glory,  and  such  token  for  my  good,  to  persuade 
and  assure  my  heart  of  thy  everlasting  love  and 
favour  in  Christ  Jesus,  to  my  soul,  that  my  soul 
may  bless  thee,  O  Lord,  and  all  that  is  within  me, 
may  praise  thy  holy  name!  And  that  the  satisfac- 
tion and  delight  which  I  take  in  thy  service,  may 
also  invite  in  others  to  give  up  themselves  to  it; 
and  so  thou,  the  blessed  Giver  of  all  joy  and 
comfort,  mayest  by  us  all  be  glorified,  through 
Jesus  Christ.  *flmen. 

Jl  Prayer  and  Praise  for  a  converted  Sinner. 

IWLL  praise  thee,  O  Lord  my  God,  with  all 
my  heart,  and  I  will  glorify  thy  name  for  ever- 
more; so  great  is  thy  mercy  towards  me,  that 
thou  hast  delivered  my  soul  from  the  lowest  hell. 
My  lips  therefore  shall  greatly  rejoice,  when  I 
sing  to  thee,  and  my  soul  which  thou  hast  re- 
deemed, shall  make  her  boast  in  the  Lord.  For 
I  was  darkness,  but  now  am  light  in  the  Lord;  I 
was  dead,  and  am  alive  again;  I  was  lost  and  am 
found.  When  no  eye  pitied  me,  and  when  1  had 
not  a  heart  to  pity  myself,  then  didst  thou,  Lord 
of  love,  look  upon  me  in  my  btood,  and  bid  me 
live.  O  sinful  wTetch!  that  I  should  be  taken, 
and  others  left!  I  stand  amazed  at  thy  kindness 
and  love,  O  God  my  Saviour,  for  all  the  great 
things  which  thou  hast  done  for  my  soul,  more 
than  if  thou  hadst  given  me  wealth,  and  strength, 
and  wit,  and  beauty,  to  the  admiration  of  all; 
more  than  if  thou  hadst  set  me  up  with  the  prin- 


240  Praise  for  a  converted  sinner. 

ces  of  the  earth,  and  blessed  me  with  all  the  ful- 
ness and  glory  of  the  world;  for  O  how  soon  do 
all  these  things  pass  away  and  perish  t  but  the 
word  of  God,  by  which  I  am  born  again,  lives 
and  abides  forever.  The  grace  of  God,  which 
brings  salvation,  appearing  to  me,  is  in  me  a  well 
of  water  springing  up  to  everlasting  life.  O  God 
of  all  grace!  who  hadst  such  thoughts  of  mercy 
towards  me,  even  when  I  was  in  enmity  against 
thee,  and  did  nothing  but  forget  and  provoke 
thee,  thou  wilt  not  despise  the  day  of  small  things, 
nor  cast  me  off  for  the  failings  of  my  services, 
after  thou  hast  wrought  in  me  some  good  things 
towards  thee,  and  brought  my  soul  from  the  gates 
of  hell,  within  prospect  of  the  heavenly  glory. 

O  what  great  and  sore  troubles  hast  thou  show- 
ed me!  yet  didst  thou  turn  again  and  refresh  me, 
and  comfort  me  on  every  side  with  the  most  re- 
viving and  richest  of  all  mercy.  I  must  forever 
have  perished,  if  thou  Lord,  hadst  not  brought 
me  from  my  deadness  in  trespasses  and  sins, 
to  newness  of  life;  and  better  I  never  had  been 
born,  if  I  had  not  been  new  born.  O  blessed 
change !  and  mighty  work,  worthy  of  God !  O  the 
riches  of  grace,  and  the  wonders  of  divine  power 
and  love!  what  shall  I  render  to  the  Lord  for 
these  greatest  of  all  benefits,  which  I  am  not  able 
so  much  as  worthily  to  express?  I  can  never 
enough  admire  and  bless  thee,  O  my  God,  for  thy 
love  to  my  soul,  which  thou  hast  brought  to  see 
the  joy  of  thy  salvation;  how  thou  didst  bear 
with  me  in  all  mydulnessand  perverseness,  and 
what  work  thou  hadst  to  bring  me  into  any  good 
hopeful  way  for  the  heavenly  bliss.  Yet  wouldst 
thou  not  suffer  me  to  undo  myself,  but  gavest  me 
checks  in  the  way  of  my  sins,  till  thou  hadst  over- 


Praise  for  a  converted  sinner.  241 

come  my  heart  by  thy  almighty  grace,  and  brought 
me  home  to  thy  blessed  self;  and  from  the  slav- 
ish dread  of  thy  wrath,  to  the  sweet  apprehen- 
sions of  thy  love. 

Bless  the  Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  all  that  is  within 
me,  bless  his  holy  name.  My  God  and  Saviour, 
I  was  hopeless  and  helpless,  and  at  the  lowest 
thou  hast  remembered  me;  at  the  worst  thou  hast 
holpen  and  comforted  me;  the  fear  of  hell  wafc 
upon  me,  and  thou  hast  set  me  above  that  killing 
dread,  to  rejoice  in  hope  of  thy  glory.  I  thank 
thee,  O  Fattier,  Lord  of  heaven  and  earth,  that 
thou  hast  hid  these  things  from  the  wise  and  pru- 
dent, and  hast  revealed  them  unto  babes.  O, 
who  am  I,  unworthy  wretch,  that  I  should  be 
made  so  happily  to  differ  from  any  others,  and 
from  my  former  self!  O  what  have  I  done  to  invite 
such  saving  mercy  to  shine  upon  me,  when  so 
great  a  part  of  the  world  is  still  in  darkness,  and 
in  the  shadow  of  death.  I  am  unworthy,  Lord, 
I  am  unworthy,  but  thou  art  the  God  infinitely 
good,  arid  abundant  in  mercy. 

O  blessed  God  of  my  salvation,  accept  the  ob- 
lation of  myself,  and  all  my  services,  together 
with  my  thanks  and  praise,  for  this  thy  love  in 
Christ  Jesus,  wherewith  thou  hast  so  eternally 
obliged  me  to  thyself.  To  give  all  glory  to  thee, 
O  what  abundant  cause  hast  thou  given  me,  when 
as  1  have  no  good  thing  on  earth,  but  of  thy 
bounty,  and  am  out  of  hell,  only  through  thy  mercy. 
And  O  that  my  life  may  be  spent  in  thy  dearest 
love,  and  in  thy  faithful  service,  ever  delighting 
to  do  thy  will,  O  my  God !  as  I  am  the  receiver 
of  such  mercies,  so  make  me  the  preacher  of  thy 
praises.  Let  me  bless  thee,  Lord,  at  all  times, 
and  have  thy  praise  continually  in  my  mouth, 

A. 


- 

242  Jlfter  a  relapse  into  stn. 

even  while  I  have  my  being.  Accept,  O  gracious 
Father,  and  continue  rne  tor  thy  own,  and  make 
me  still  fitter  for  thy  blessed  acceptance  in  Jesus 
Christ  my  Saviour.  Amen. 

Jl  Prayer  after  a  Relapse  into  Sin. 

OMY  God !  I  am  filled  with  confusion  to  lift 
up  iny  face  unto  thee,  from  whom  I  have  so 
foolishly  and  wickedly  departed;  and  against 
whom  1  have  so  greatly  and  provokingly  sinned. 
I  am  ashamed  to  confess  unto  thee  what,  alas!  I 
have  not  been  afraid  to  commit  against  thee 
Thou,  Lord,  hast  made  me  to  know  better,  but  I 
have  held  the  truth  in  unrighteousness,  and  there- 
fore deserve  to  be  beaten  with  many  stripes,  for 
sinning  so  against  my  own  knowledge.  Yea, 
how  oft  have  I  been  taught,  as  with  briars  and 
thorns,  what  an  evil  and  bitter  thing  it  is  to  tres- 
pass upon  the  Lord,  as  I  have  done!  arid  yet, 
worse  than  a  child  or  brute,  I  have  run  upon  the 
offences  for  which  I  knew  I  must  sadly  repent,  or 
do  worse;  nor  have  I  only  resisted  the  clearest 
light  and  conviction,  but  trampled  on  the  richest 
grace  and  love;  therefore  I  am  inexcusable,  O 
righteous  Lord!  and  have  nothing  to  say  in  my 
own  defence:  no,  the  guilt  which  1  have  contract- 
ed, stops  my  mouth.  O  into  what  a  depth  am  I 
fallen!  and  is  there  any  hope  now  for  one  that 
has  so  wrilfully  spoiled  himself  as  I  have  done? 
The  pardon  and  grace  which  I  am  necessitated 
to  come  begging  at  thy  hands,  O  my  Lord,  how 
much  greater  are  they  than  I  have  any  reason  to 
expect!  yet  not  greater  than  thou,  the  God  of  all 
grace,  canst  give;  nor  greater  than  thou  hast  also 
promised  to  bestow  even  upon  the  greatest  sin- 
ners, repenting  and  returning  to  thee.  It  is  thy 


Jlfter  a  relapse  into  sin.  243 

reviving  word  to  such,  that  thou  wilt  have  mercy 
upon  them,  and  abundantly  pardon;  and  though 
men  may  be  false,  and  their  offers  but  ensnare- 
ments,  yet  faithfulness  itself  can  never  deceive  us. 
Seeing  thou  hast  made  such  a  way  for  our  re- 
demption, O  God  of  all  grace,  to  heal  and  save 
our  poor  lost  souls,  by  the  stripes  and.  death  of 
thy  own  beloved  Son ;  O  that  the  blessed  Saviour 
whom  thou  hast  sent  into  the  \vorld,  may  exercise 
his  power  and  pity,  and  great  salvation  upon  me, 
in  this  my  woful  condition!  and  make  me  some 
way  to  escape,  that  I  may  not  be  thus  taken  cap- 
tive by  the  tempter  at  his  will.  Good  God !  there 
is  nothing  in  me  but  misery  to  move  thy  mercy. 

0  fetch  arguments  of  pity  from  thy  own  infinite 
goodness,  and  thy  tender  inclinations,  to  compas- 
sionate and  relieve  poor  sinners  returning  to  thee, 
after  they  have  foolishly  misbehaved  themselves 
and  wickedly  rebelled  against  thee.     Mercy,  O 
Lord,  mercy  I  beg  of  thee,  for  mercy's  sake:  O 
let  thy  compassion  spare  me,  and  withhold  thy 
justice  from  proceeding  ogainst  me.    I  have  sin- 
ned as  a  silly  wicked  man;  O  Lord,  pardon  and 
heal  me,  as  an  Almighty  and  most  merciful  God. 

1  have  gone  astray  like  a  lost  sheep!  O  seek  thy 
servant,  Lord,  and  bring  me  back  to  the  Shep- 
herd and  Bishop  of  my  soul.    Wilt  thou  take  this 
sad  opportunity  to  advance  thy  everlasting  glory, 
in  pitying  the  worst  of  fools,  in  saving  the  chief 
of  sinners?  For  thy  name  sake,  O  Lord,  pardon 
my  iniquity,  which  is  so  exceedingly  great.     O 
absolve  me  from  the  guilt,  deliver  me  from  the 
power,  cleanse  me  from  the  pollution,  and  save 
me  from  the  punishment  of  this,  and  all  my  of- 
fences, that  expose  me  to  thy  wrath, and  indispose 
me  for  thy  service;  estranging  rne  from  thee,  and 


244  Under  any  fon 

hindering  the  freedom  of  my  love  and  delight  in 
thee. 

Lord  of  love,  the  God  of  my  mercy,  heal  my 
backslidings,  that  I  may  not  again  return  to  folly. 

0  let  me  vow  and  pay  to  the  Lord  my  God:  and 
so  go  forth  in  thy  strength,  that  thou  mayest  con- 
firm my  resolution,  and  enable  me  to  perform  what 

1  have  promised.     O  thou  compassionate  suc- 
courer  of  the  tempted,  lead  me  not  into  tempta- 
tion, bat,  by  thy  grace  and  mighty  aid,  secure  me 
so  to  thyself,  that  I  may  not  only  in  this  day  of  con- 
fusion and  anguish,  when  my  wounds  are  fresh 
bleeding  upon  me,  but  in  all  times  to  come,  hum- 
ble my  soul,  and  hate  my  sin,  and  take  heed  to 
my  ways;  and  with  purpose  of  heart  cleave  to 
the  Lord,  and  keep  in  thy  holy  fear  and  love  to 
my  life's  end.     Amen. 

Another  humbling  Office  under  any  foal  Fall 

OJUST  and  holy  God,  what  shall  I  say  unto 
thee,  and  how  shall  I  show  my  face  before 
thee,  after  I  have  so  highly  affronted  thy  glorious 
Majesty,  and  violated  thy  righteous  commands, 
striking  more  wounds  still  into  my  wofully-dis- 
tressed  conscience.  O  that  I  should  have  the  sad 
occasion  to  come  upon  the  same  account,  to  con- 
fess and  bewail  the  sin  which  I  have  so  often  con- 
fessed and  bewailed.  Holy  Lord,  I  am  ashamed 
that  I  have  this  need  to  beg;  and  afraid  lest  my 
sins  have  so  provoked  thee,  that  I  should  beg  in 
vain ;  for  sin,  when  it  is  finished,  brings  forth  death ; 
it  destroys  our  grace,  and  peace,  and  comfort 
now;  and,  without  the  interposition  of  infinite 
mercy,  it  will  destroy  soul  and  body  eternally. 
And  when  I  am  under  the  desert  of  that  condem- 
nation, O  what  mercy  from  the  Father  of  mercies, 


Under  any  foul  fall.  245 

do  1  experience,  that  it  is  not  executed  upon  me* 
What  patience,  but  that  of  the  long-suffering  God, 
would  ever  bear  with  such  as  provoke  him  every 
day,  when  he  could  so  easily  break  out  in  furyf 
and  avenge  him  of  his  adversary!  O  how  justly 
mightest  thou,  Lord,  refuse  to  hear  me  now  cry- 
ing to  thee  in  the  anguish  of  my  soul;  who  have 
so  often  refused  to  hear  thee  calling  upon  me 
by  the  motions  of  thy  holy  Spirit!  O  the  spoils, 
and  havoc,  and  desolation,  which  my  sin  has 
made  in  my  soul!  So  many  aggravations  of  this 
sin,  do  make  it  beyond  measure  sinful,  till  I  am 
become  vile  in  my  own  eyes.  Arid  such  frequent 
falls  do  ruin  my  hopes,  and  render  my  case  so 
extremely  hazardous,  that  I  am  ready  to  fear,  lest 
mercy  should  quite  have  done  with  me,  and  aban- 
don me  over  to  my  wretched  self,  and  leave  me 
to  be  filthy  still,  and  to  lie  and  perish  in  my  sins, 
because  I  have  revolted  still  more  and  more. 

I  abhor  myself  and  humble  my  soul  here  in 
the  dust  before  thee,  O  Lord !  and  because  1 
have  made  so  bold  with  thy  laws,  I  am  sorely 
afraid  of  thy  judgments.  My  sins  have  taken 
such  hold  of  me,  that  my  heart  fails  me ;  yet, 
Lord,  if  thou  wilt,  thou  canst  make  me  clean, 
and  make  me  whole.  I  come  therefore  in  hope 
to  beg  the  so  often  forfeited  life  of  my  poor  soul, 
at  thy  blessed  hands;  for  thou  that  hast  charged 
us  to  forgive  an  offending  brother  seventy  times 
seven,  (even  as  oft  as  he  repents)  wilt  not  thyself 
be  harder  to  thy  offenders,  when  they  become 
penitent  seekers  of  thy  mercy:  no,  though  we  so 
often  forget  our  duty,  thou  canst  never  forget  thy 
mercy.  A  woman  may  sooner  forget  her  com- 
passions to  the  fruit  of  her  womb,  than  the  Lord 
of  love  will  forget  his  kindness  to  his  children. 

X  2 


246  Under  any  foul  fall. 

And  to  the  mercy  that  has  hitherto  so  wonder- 
fully endured  me,  O  my  Lord,  I  seek  and  beg 
now  this  addition,  even  the  further  prolonging 
yet  of  thy  patience  towards  me. 

In  the  day  of  trouble  I  will  call  upon  thee,  for 
thou  wilt  answer  me.  I  believe,  Lord,  thy  power 
and  thy  readiness  to  relieve  poor  sinners  repair- 
ing to  thee;  and  to  that  end  didst  thou,  O  bless- 
ed Saviour,  corne  into  the  world,  and  shed  thy 
precious  blood,  to  atone  for  our  guilt,  and  to 
cleanse  us  from  all  our  sins.  O  that  I,  who  have 
the  greatest  need,  may  feel  the  happy  benetit! 
that  where  sin  has  abounded,  thy  grace  may 
much  more  abound.  Look  upon  me,  O  Lord,  as 
thou  didst  on  thy  offending  disciple,  to  melt  my 
heart  into  a  kindly  relenting,  and  penitent  con- 
cernment for  this  great  evil ;  that  I  may  look  up- 
on him  whom  my  sins  have  pierced,  arid  mourn, 
and  be  in  bitterness  for  the  grievous  offences  that 
I  have  committed  against  the  Lord  of  love,  and 
the  God  of  all  my  mercies.  What  is  past  \  cannot 
recall;  but  thou,  my  Jesus,  canst  remit  it,  and  give 
me  grace  to  repent  it.  O  give  me  such  true  re- 
pentance for  it,  that  thou  mayest  also  give  me  full 
pardon  of  it,  and  in  thy  great  mercy,  be  recon- 
ciled to  me,  and  at  peace  with  me. 

And  grant,  O  gracious  Lord,  that  the  custom 
ot  sinning  rmy  not  so  dull  rny  sense  of  it,  that  I 
should  commif  these  great  sins  with  little  remorse. 
Nor  let  it  so  increase  rny  sinful  inclinations,  that 
I  should  be  the  servant  of  corruption,  giving  har- 
bour and  encouragement  to  the  cursed  things, 
and  taking  part  with  the  enemies  of  my  own  house, 
to  be  the  worst  tempter  to  myself.  Be  thou,  O 
Lord,  my  strong  tower  of  defence  against  them, 
and  enable  me  to  go  on  conquering  and  to  con- 


Recovery,  after  a  fall  into  sin.  247 


quor,  till  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  I  have  destroy- 
ed them.  So  often  have  I  fallen  by  their  hands, 
that  I  fear  lest  one  day  I  should  so  fall  by  them, 
as  never  to  rise  again;  butthou,  my  Strength  and 
my  Redeemer,  art  stronger  than  the  strong  one, 
and  able  yet  to  secure  me.  O  blessed  Keeper  of 
Israel,  keep  back  thy  servant  from  presumptuous 
sins;  let  them  not  have  dominion  over  me;  that 
I  may  be  upright  and  innocent  from  the  groat 
transgression;  nor  punish  my  past  sins,  by  giving 
me  up  to  commit  sin  with  greediness,  but  subdue 
my  iniquities  that  prevail  against  me;  and  pluck 
me  out  of  the  mire  and  the  snare,  for  thy  mercy's 
sake.  O  that  the  same  mercy,  which  has  hither- 
to held  the  hand  of  justice  from  cutting  me  off, 
and  so  often  spared  me,  may  also  forgive  and  re- 
new me,  and  so  strengthen  all  the  good  things  of 
thy  grace  in  my  soul,  that  I  may  be  full  of  power 
to  defend  thy  rights  against  these  usurpations  of 
the  sinful  p;\rt  in  me;  and  may  be  found  so  faith- 
ful until  death,  that  thou  mayest  give  me  the 
crown  of  life;  not  for  any  worth  in  me,  but  for 
the  worthiness  of  thy  Son,  and  for  the  sake  of  thy 
own  tender  mercies  in  Jesus  Christ. 


Thanksgiving  for  a  Recovery,  after  a  fall  into  Sin. 

I  BLESS  thy  name,  O  Lord  my  God,  infinitely 
^  good,  that  thou  hast  kept  me  alive  to  this 
day;  and  after  all  my  ill  carriage  towards  thee, 
and  all  rny  presumptuous  boldness  wilh  thee,  and 
manifold  rebellions  against  thee,  thou  hast  not 
given  me  over  as  a  prey  to  the  deadly  enemy  of 
my  soul,  that  seeks  to  devour  me,  but  dost  yet 
leave  me  a  reserve  of  hope,  and  it  is  not  in  vain 
to  seek  thy  face,  and  to  wait  for  mercy  at  thy 
hands.  O  my  God,  how  wonderful  is  thy  patience 


248  Recovery,  after  a  fall  into  sin. 

in  my  eyes,  that  I  have  not  perished  in  such  sins,  j 
It  is  through  thy  grace  that  I  come  to  pause  and 
consider  of  my  sin  and  danger,  and  the  way  to  es- 
cape. And  therefore  hast  thou  so  spared  me  in 
all  my  sins,  that,  by  helping  in  such  a  desperate 
case,  thou  mightest  show  forth  all  the  wonders 
of  thy  grace. 

O  Father  of  mercies,  hast  thou  yet  a  blessing  for 
such  a  rebellious  wretch?  And  may  1  yet  make 
bold  to  look  for  thy  blessed  favour,  after  1  have 
done  thee  such  infinite  wrong!  O  the  inconceiv- 
able depths  of  thy  goodness  that  are  in  thy  gra- 
cious nature,  to  use  me  as  a  dear  friend,  wrho 
have  misbehaved  myself  towards  thee,  as  the 
worst  enemy,  and  to  leave  me  hopes  of  pardon 
and  heaven;  when  it  is  mercy  far  above  all  my 
deserts,  but  to  spare  my  life  upon  earth,  and  to 
keep  my  soul  out  of  hell.  And  hast  thou,  Lord, 
kept  me  to  this  day,  and  brought  me  through  so 
many  temptations  and  dangers  in  my  life,  to  be 
avenged  on  me,  and  to  destroy  me  at  last?  O  my 
gracious  Father,  the  God  of  all  my  mercies,  I 
cannot  think  thou  so  delightest  in  my  death.  I 
have  WTonged  thee  too  much  with  all  my  sins  al- 
ready; and  let  me  not  add  this  now  to  the  heavy 
score,  to  dishonour  such  tried  mercy,  with  the 
base  distrust,  and  despair  of  its  continuance.  O 
no;  I  believe,  Lord,  help  my  unbelief,  that  thou 
art  not  willing  that  I  should  perish,  but  by  repent- 
ance come  to  salvation:  and  O  what  a  gracious 
God  have  I,  to  deal  so  bountifully  with  me:  and 
what  a  stony  heart,  to  be  no  more  affected  with 
the  richest  mercy!  O  what  a  life  of  sins,  and  what 
a  life  of  mercies  has  been  mine !  with  amazement 
I  reflect  on  both,  to  think  how  bad  I  have  been 
towards  thee,  my  Lord,  and  yet  how  good  thou 


For  spiritual  victory.  249 

hast  been  to  my  soul.  O  that  such  wonders  of 
love  may  have  the  prevailing  force  upon  my  heart, 
to  turn  it  against  the  sins  that  have  engaged  me 
in  such  rebellion  against  the  Lord,  and  to  bring 
me  nearer  to  my  God  than  ever  I  have  been ;  and 
to  make  me  more  abound  in  thy  love,  and  more 
delight  in  thy  service  than  ever  1  have  done.  O 
that  I  may  never  commit  sins  so  great  against  the 
God  so  infinitely  good,  but  be  warned  by  these 
escapes,  and  won  by  these  mercies,  to  be  more 
watchful  and  faithful  in  keeping  myself  from  my 
iniquity;  continually  fearing  to  offend,  and  en- 
deavouring to  please  thee,  my  God,  through  Jesus 
Christ.  Jlmen. 

Thanksgiving  for  Spiritual  Victory* 

OLORD  God,  almighty  and  most  merciful, 
who  givest  strength  and  power  to  thy  peo- 
ple; and  with  the  temptation  makest  them  a  way 
to  escape !  by  thy  grace  I  am  what  I  am,  and  thy 
grace  bestowed  on  me  was  not  in  vain,  but  help- 
ed me  in  time  of  need,  to  withstand  and  over- 
come the  temptation  wherewith  I  was  assault- 
ed. My  own  strength,  Lord,  thou  knowest  is  but 
weakness,  and  my  heart  not  to  be  trusted.  But 
thy  hand  held  me  up,  arid  by  the  help  of  my  God, 
I  have  preserved  my  integrity,  and  so  resisted  the 
devil,  as  to  make  him  flee  from  me.  I  find,  O 
Lord,  by  sweet  and  joyful  experience,  thy  ways 
to  be  ways  of  pleasantness  and  paths  of  peace; 
and  that  in  observing  thy  laws  there  is  great  re- 
ward. O  how  much  are  the  heavenly  raptures 
of  victory  to  be  preferred  before  the  filthy  plea- 
sures of  sin !  shame  and  dread,  and  sorrow,  are 
the  cursed  consequences  of  yielding  to  the  tempt* 
er;  but  glorying,  and  confidence,  and  the-peaco 


250          For  Concernment  and  Diligence. 

of  God,  and  joy  in  the  Holy  Ghost,  are  the  con- 
queror's portion. 

I  will  greatly  rejoice  in  the  Lord  ;  my  soul  shall 
be  joyful  in  my  God,  who  has  lifted  me  up,  and 
not  suffered  my  foes  to  triumph  over  me.  They 
have  thrust  sore  at  me  that  1  might  fall,  but  the 
Lord  helped  me.  The  Lord  is  my  strength  and 
my  song,  and  is  become  my  salvation  ;  the  voice 
of  rejoicing  and  salvation  is  in  the  dwellings  of 
the  righteous.  The  right  hand  of  the  Lord  doth 
valiantly,  and  brings  mighty  things  to  pass.  I 
shall  not  die  but  live,  and  declare  the  works  of 
the  Lord,  and  tell  what  he  has  done  for  my  soul. 
Blessed  be  God,  who  has  not  turned  away  my 
prayer,  nor  his  mercy  from  me.  O  Lord  my 
God,  thou  hast  been  watchful  over  me  for  good, 
thou  was  nigh  to  me,  thou  hast  showed  thy  fa- 
therly care  of  me,  and  in  love  to  my  soul  hast 
thou  preserved  me,  because  thou  hadst  a  favour 
to  me.  I  am  thine,  and  I  will  be  thine,  and  will 
love  thee,  and  bless  thy  name,  and  give  thee 
thanks  forever. 


A  Prayer  for  greater  Concernment  and  Diligence  for 
the  Sow/,  and  the  Things  of  another  World. 

OLORD  God,  to  whom  1  do  owe  myself  and 
all  that  ever  I  am  or  have,  thou  hast  given 
me  my  being,  and  my  time  and  talents  here  in  the 
world,  as  opportunities  and  advantages  of  thy  ser- 
vice, and  for  the  working  out  of  my  salvation. 
And  O  what  have  I  to  do  upon  earth,  but  to  pre- 
pare myself  for  heaven,  when  I  am  here  placed 
betwreen  the  infinite  eternity  of  happiness  and  of 
misery,  in  a  capacity  for  the  one,  and  in  danger 
of  the  other.  O  what  should  be  my  care  and  ut- 
most endeavour,  but  to  flee  from  the  wrath  to 


For  Concernment  and  Diligence.  251 

come,  and  to  lay  hold  on  eternal  life;  to  provide 
well  for  my  everlasting  condition,  and  to  make 
sure  work  for  my  immortal  soul  in  this  only  time 
of  preparation ;  but  O  how  negligent  and  careless 
have  1  been  in  that  which  most  of  all  concerns 
me,  doing  every  thing  rather  than  the  great  work 
which  thou  didst  send  me  into  the  world  to  do; 
and  so  thou  mightest  justly  come  upon  me,  Lord, 
with  a  dreadful  surprise,  to  call  me  to  my  last  ac- 
count, in  a  day  unlocked  for,  and  at  an  hour  that 
I  should  not  be  aware  of;  but  for  the  sake  of  that 
mercy  of  thine  in  Christ  Jesus,  which  has  pre- 
vailed with  thee  to  spare  me  so  long,  go  on,  I  be- 
seech thee,  O  my  God,  to  be  merciful  to  me,  in 
forgiving  me  all  my  past  sloth  and  negligence; 
and  in  quickening  me  to  a  greater  concernment 
and  assiduity,  to  redeem  the  time  that  I  have  lost, 
and  to  improve  every  present  enjoyment  to  my 
soul's  eternal  advantage.  O  preserve  me  from 
all  the  distracting  cares,  and  the  sinful  pleasures 
of  this  life;  and  let  me  look  less  upon  the  tempo- 
ral things  that  are  seen;  and  keep  open  my  eyes 
towards  the  great  unseen  eternal  things  that  are 
before  me.  O  make  me  more  concerned  for  my 
everlasting  state,  and  more  careful  to  do  that 
work,  which  above  all  things  in  the  world,  is  most 
needful  to  be  done.  O  let  me  dread  the  doom 
of  the  slothful  servant,  and  riot  be  listless  to  the 
business  that  is  of  the  greatest  importance.  Lord 
show  me  both  the  truth  and  reality,  and  also  the 
worth  and  excellency  of  things  to  come;  both  to 
dispel  all  my  doublings  of  them,  and  also  to  whet 
my  earnest  longings  after  them.  O  give  me  such 
a  view  and  apprehension  of  my  supreme  eternal 
pood,  as  may  raise  my  desires  after  it,  propor- 
tionably  to  it;  and  make  me  so  dissatisfied  without 


252  For  Concernment  and  Diligence. 

it  that  I  may  count  nothing  too  much  to  do,  no- 
thing too  hard  to  endure,  so  that  I  may  at  last  at- 
tain the  blessed  enjoyment  of  it. 

O  let  the  meditation  of  hell  be  a  preservative 
to  deter  me  from  all  the  ways  leading  to  that 
dreadful  end;  and  may  I  so  look  to  the  heavenly 
joy  set  before  me,  that  with  all  vigour  and 
alacrity  I  may  put  forth  myself,  to  get  safe  into 
the  possession  of  everlasting  glory.  O  my  God, 
give  me  the  spirit  of  wisdom  from  above,  to  dis- 
cern the  vast  disproportion  between  the  short 
moment  of  this  present  time,  and  the  infinite  du- 
ration of  immortality ;  and  between  the  pleasures 
of  sin,  that  are  but  for  a  season,  and  those  hea- 
venly pleasures  that  are  at  thy  right  hand  for 
evermore.  Seeing  all  these  things  must  be  dis- 
solved, O  make  me  such  a  manner  of  person  as 
I  ought  to  be,  in  all  holy  conversation  and  godli- 
ness; looking  for,  and  hasting  to.  the  coming  of 
the  day  of  God.  Quicken  rne,  O  Lord,  in  my 
dulness,  and  hasten  me  out  of  my  delays;  that  I 
may  not  prolong  the  time  of  doing  what  I  am  con- 
vinced is  necessary  to  be  done;  to  save  rne  from 
the  second  death,  arid  bring  me  to  inherit  eternal 
life.  O!  to  what  purpose  am  1  troubled  and  care- 
ful about  many  things,  when  I  neglect  the  one 
thing  needful!  Help  me,  my  God,  to  use  the  rea- 
son and  understanding  which  thouhast  given  me, 
in  looking  before  me,  and  considering  what  it  is 
that  makes  for  my  true  happiness;  and  give  me 
also  resolution  and  faithfulness  to  choose  and  fol- 
low it,  whatever  difficulties  at  present  may  be  in 
it.  Help  me,O  Lord,  Jo  remember  and  consider 
all  the  powerful  inducements,  which  may  quick- 
en me  into  a  greater  care  for  my  eternal  state; 
that  rny  being  may  not  last  longer  than  the  good 


For  Faithfulness,  Sfc.  253 

of  my  being,  but  may  it  go  well  with  me  else- 
where forever,  when  all  that  is  here  shall  fail  me. 
O  that  I  may  now  give  diligence  to  make  my  call- 
ing and  election  sure,  and  strive  to  enter  in  at  the 
strait  gate,  and  labour  for  that  meat  which  en- 
dures to  everlasting  life;  by  patient  continuing  in 
well-doing,  seeking  for  glory,  honour  and  im- 
mortality; that  I  may  not  fall  short  of  that  rest 
which  remains  for  the  people  of  God;  but  so  la- 
bour here  in  thy  work,  that  hereafter  I  may  rest 
from  my  labours  in  thy  kingdom;  not  for  the 
merit  of  my  works,  but  for  thy  mercy's  sake  in 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

Jl  Prayer  for  Faithfulness  and  Constancy  in  the  Pro- 
fession of  our  Religion. 
OMY  Lord  and  my  God,  who  hast  called  me 
to  the  knowledge  of  thy  eternal  truth,  and 
by  the  light  of  the  gospel  shining  upon  me,  hast 
made  the  way  of  life  and  salvation  plain  before 
me !  Be  thou  pleased  to  give  me  the  ingenuity  and 
courage  still  to  confess  thee  before  men;  and  to 
own  thy  holy  religion,  even  in  the  face  of  an  evil 
and  adulterous  generation.  O  let  me  not  be  toss- 
ed to  and  fro,  and  carried  away  with  every  wind 
of  doctrine  by  the  slight  of  men,  and  cunning 
craftiness,  whereby  they  lie  in  wait  to  deceive. 
My  God  and  guide!  suffer  me  not  to  be  led  away 
with  the  error  of  the  wicked  and  to  fall  from  my 
own  steadfastness;  but  may  I  ever  hold  fast  the 
profession  of  my  faith  without  wavering,  and  hold 
the  beginning  of  my  confidence  steadfast  to  the 
end.  O  give  me  such  experimental  knowledge 
and  relish,  and  love  of  thy  holy  truth,  as  may 
may  make  me  ever  faithful  and  true  to  it;  that 
my  mind  may  not  be  corrupted  from  the  simpli- 


254  For  Zeal  and  Activity,  &c. 

city  that  is  in  Christ,  and  that  I  may  never  be  put 
out  of  that  religion,  the  goodness  whereof  I  have 
perceived  so  much  by  my  own  experience;  but 
may  still  appear  with  zeal  for  the  religion  in 
which  I  have  found  so  much  happy  advantage, 
and  heavenly  satisfaction  to  my  soul ;  and  grant 
me,  good  Lord,  to  find  and  feel  still  more  and 
more  of  the  powerful  efficacy  of  true  Christianity 
upon  my  heart,  that  1  may  be  rooted  and  ground- 
ed in  the  faith,  and  retain  such  a  dear  love  of  the 
truth,  and  take  so  much  pleasure  in  the  way 
which  thy  grace  has  put  me  upon,  that  I  may  never 
turn  from  it,  nor  prove  false  to  it;  but  notwith- 
standing all  temptations  to  seduce  or  affright  me 
out  of  it,  I  may  openly  declare  for  it,  and  ever  be 
true  to  it,  and  faithfully  persist  in  it  to  my  life's 
end.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  Zeal  and  Activity  in  the  Practice  of  our 

Religion. 

LORD,  the  holy  jealous  God!  thouhast  de- 
clared how  loathsome  to  thee  are  the  luke- 
warm, and  pronounced  him  cursed  that  does  the 
work  of  the  Lord  deceitfully;  and  told  us  the 
dreadful  doom  of  the  slothful  servant,  who  was  call- 
ed wicked,  and  condemned,  not  for  committing 
foul  evils,  but  for  neglecting  to  improve  his  ta- 
lents. Thou  didst  send  us  into  this  world  to  pro- 
vide for  the  next;  and  we  are  a  people  devoted 
to  the  Lord,  that  have  vowed  and  promised  to 
serve  our  God,  with  all  the  utmost  and  best  that 
we  are  or  have:  this  is  the  one  thing  needful,  that 
we  were  made  for,  and  that  we  are  all  most  strict- 
ly bound  to,  and  must  in  earnest  mind  and  follow 
it,  as  ever  we  would  escape  the  damnation  of  hell, 
and  enter  into  the  joy  of  our  Lord ;  but  I  am  asham- 


For  Zeal  and  Activity,  Sec.  255 

ed,  O  my  God,  that  I  have  loitered  so  long  in  thy 
vineyard,  and  trifled  so  much  in  thy  work;  that  I 
have  busied  myself  about  vanities;  and  slighted 
my  greatest  business.  And  well  may  I  now  trem- 
ble for  fear  of  thy  judgments,  when  I  have  so  lit- 
tle concerned  and  bestirred  myself,  as  one  of  thy 
redeemed,  zealous  of  good  works. 

O  merciful  Lord!  forgive  me  all  my  sinful  omis- 
sions, and  all  my  careless  performances  of  the  du- 
ties of  thy  service;  and  quicken  me  into  a  great- 
er zeal  and  diligence  to  promote  thy  glory,  and 
to  work  out  my  salvation;  that  I  may  not  only 
contend  earnestly  for  the  faith  and  doctrine  of 
the  gospel,  but  be  as  zealous  for  the  practice  of 
all  gospel  duties ;  so  showing  that  I  am  in  earnes* 
with  the  religion  whereof  I  make  profession.  - 

To  glorify  thy  name,  and  save  our  souls,  is  the 
greatest  of  all  our  concerns  in  the  world;  nothing 
can  deserve  so  much  of  our  care,  and  zeal,  and 
diligence ;  when  it  is  for  a  crown  and  a  kingdom, 
for  heaven  and  the  glory  eternal,  and  to  be  de- 
livered from  thy  wrath  and  everlasting  damnation, 
that  we  strive  and  labour.  O  how  much  are  we 
concerned  to  be  vigorous  in,  and  attentive  to  it! 
ready  to  do  every  good  work,  and  most  industri- 
ous at  the  business  of  such  infinite  consequence, 
abounding  in  the  work  of  the  Lord!  when  upon 
this  moment  depends  the  endless  eternity  to  come, 
and  all  that  concerns  us  forever,  hangs  upon  the 
poor  short  life  present,  that  is  so  quickly  gone, 
and  will  never  return.  O  my  God !  imprint  these 
considerations  so  deep  upon  my  heart,  that  I  may 
no  more  trifle  with  the  weighty  things  of  eternity, 
nor  show  a  cold  indifference  about  that  which  is 
of  such  absolute  necessity;  but  may  act  as  one 
that  must  be  a  blessed  or  a  damned  creature  for- 


256  For  Zeal  and  Activity,  fyc. 

ever:  arid  be  as  zealous  for  my  God,  as  ever  1 
have  been  eager  for  the  world;  and  as  active  in 
the  pursuit  of  things  eternal,  as  I  have  been  to 
pursue  the  temporal ;  that  I  may  indeed  give  up 
myself  to  thy  service,  and  make  it  the  main  care 
and  business  of  my  life ;  so  showing  the  sincerity 
of  what  I  do  profess,  by  that  zeal  and  fervency, 
which  is  the  life  and  soul  of  Christianity.  O  thou 
great  Rewarder  of  them  that  diligently  seek  thee ! 
help  me  seriously  to  engage  in  thy  service,  and 
unweariedly  to  go  through  with  it;  not  slothful  in 
business,  but  fervent  in  spirit,  serving  the  Lord; 
exercising  myself  to  godliness,  continuing  watch- 
ful in  prayer,  keeping  my  heart  with  all  diligence, 
ordering  my  conversation  with  all  usefulness,  and 
running  the  race  set  before  me  with  all  cheer- 
fulness, full  of  life  and  spirit  in  thy  work,  arid  full 
of  good  deeds  and  fruits  to  thy  honour,  ever  la- 
bouring to  be  accepted  here  to  thy  favour,  and 
hereafter  to  thy  glory. 

Yea,  make  me  more  zealous  for  thy  honour,  O 
Lord,  than  for  my  own;  and  whatever  is  injuri- 
ous and  reproachful  to  thee,  O  let  me  hate  it  per- 
fectly, and  oppose  it  strenuously,  and  yet  with 
such  prudence  and  kindness  towards  men,  that  I 
may  not  betray  my  own  shame,  in  defending  thy 
glory,  nor  let  my  zeal  consume,  but  inflame  my 
charity ;  and  put  me  upon  doing  all  the  good  that 
ever  I  am  able  in  my  generation ;  to  serve  the  in- 
terest of  my  Lord,  and  to  help  forward  the  sal- 
vation of  souls.  O  make  me  valiant  for  thy  truth, 
and  discreet  in  my  conduct,  that  I  may  neither 
betray  the  holy  cause  by  my  fear,  nor  reproach 
it  by  my  folly.  O  let  me  not  spend  my  zeal  and 
spirits  for  earthly,  but  for  heavenly  things;  not 
for  my  own  lust  and  honour,  but  for  thy  blessed 


J]gainst  Worhtiiness.  257 

will  and  pleasure;  not  in  frivolous  contentions, 
about  the  little  appendages  and  circumstantials  of 
religion,  but  in  pressing  after  the  vital  and  substan- 
tial part;  and  in  my  concernment  and  endeavour 
about  the  great  unquestionable  duties  and  quali- 
fications necessary  to  the  saving  of  the  soul.  And 
grant  me  thy  grace,  O  Lord,  to  live  now  so  zea- 
lously to  the  glory  of  thy  name,  that  I  may  come 
to  live  blessedly  forever,  in  the  glories  of  thy  king- 
dom ;  not  for  the  sake  of  my  services,  but  of  thy 
mercies,  whose  gift  is  eternal  life,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.  jQmcn. 

Jl  Prayer  against   Worldliness,  and  for  a  Heavenly 
Mind. 

THOU,  O  blessed  God,  art  the  only  satisfy- 
ing portion  and  happiness  of  our  souls,  in 
whom  alone  the  desires  of  our  hearts  may  find 
that  rest  and  repose,  which  all  the  world  else 
cannot  give ;  but,  alas,  this  world,  and  the  things 
of  it,  have  had  too  much  of  my  thoughts,  and  too 
much  of  my  heart,  till  I  have  grown  remiss  in  my 
affections,  and  cold  in  my  love  towards  thee,  my 
God,  and  those  things  above,  which  are  most 
worthy  of  my  love.  I  have  been  eager  in  the 
pursuit  of  vanities  and  trifling  concerns  of  this 
present  time;  but  O  how  slack  and  flighty  in  that 
which  does  most  nearly  and  eternally  concern 
me!  Intent  upon  this  world,  as  if  it  would  never 
end ;  and  forgetful  of  the  next,  as  if  it  should  never 
begin.  I  have  forsaken  the  Fountain  of  living  wa- 
ters, to  hew  to  myself  the  broken  cistern  that  can 
hold  no  water;  disquieting  myself  in  vain,  seek- 
ing rest  and  finding  none;  because  I  have  sought 
where  the  precious  treasure  is  not  to  be  found. 
And  so  thou  mightest,  Lord,  leave  me  to  inherit 

Y2 


258  For  a  Heavenly  Mind. 

my  own  wretched  choice ,°  to  eat  of  the  fruit  of 
my  own  way,  and  to  be  filled  with  my  own  de- 
vices; giving  me  all  my  portion  in  this  life,  which 
I  have  so  brutishly  preferred  before  an  infinitely 
better;  and  shutting  me  out  of  that  heavenly 
kingdom,  which  I  have  despised  for  the  sake  of 
this  present  world. 

But,  O  thou   Father  of  mercies!   forgive  me 
all  the  defects  of  my  love  to  thee,  and  all  the 
excesses  of  my  love  to  earthly  things;  and  so 
moderate  my  desires  after  these  inferior  goods, 
that  instead  of  doating  upon  the  world,  I  may 
covet  earnestly  the  best  gifts,  and  seek  first  thy 
kingdom  and  its  righteousness;  esteeming  godli- 
ness the  greatest  gain,  and  all  things  else  but  loss 
and  dung,  for  the  love  of  Christ,  and  the  glories 
of  heaven.     O  show  me  so  much  of  those  great 
and  glorious  things  of  the  world  to  come,  as  may 
dull  and  deaden  my  affections  to  tire  things  of 
this  present  world,  and  crucify  the  world  to  me, 
and  me  to  the  world;  that  it  may  lose  the  great 
force  which  it  has  had  upon  me;  that  I  may  be 
more  disengaged  and  loosened  from  it,  and  more 
enamoured  with,  and  intent  upon  the  things  above, 
where  Christ  sitteth  at  the  right  hand  of  God, 
which  will  fully  satisfy  and  never  fail  me.     O  let 
me  not  debase  my  heavenly  soul,  to  lie  grovelling 
and  rooting  in  the  earth,  and  licking  the  dust,  as 
if  I  were  all  flesh,  and  had  nothing  to  do,  but  to 
trudge  for  the  vile  body.     O  may  I  less  mind 
earthly  things,  and  despise  the  most  tempting  en- 
joyments of  this  world,  for  the  love  of  my  Lord, 
and  the  hope  of  his  glory.     May  my  heart  be 
with  my  treasure  in  the  heaven,  looking  for  the 
blessed  hope,  and  the  glorious  appearance  of  the 
great  God,  and  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ ;  not  cov- 


For  Perseverance.  259 

eting  great  things  of  the  world,  nor  to  continue 
long  in  it;  but  rather  in  care  to  get  safe  out  of  it, 
and  desirous  to  be  dissolved,  and  to  be  ever  with 
the  Lord.  Even  so,  come  Lord  Jesus.  Amen, 
Amen. 

A  Prayer  for  Perseverance  and  Grace  to  endure  to  the 

end. 

ETERNAL  God,  with  whom  is  everlasting 
strength !  thou  art  able  to  keep  us  from  fall- 
ing, and  to  perform  the  good  work  begun  in  us, 
till  the  day  of  Jesus  Christ.  But  Lord  thou  know- 
est  how  weak  and  mutable  I  am ;  how  wavering 
and  bent  to  backsliding;  how  apt  to  decline  and 
fall  off,  after  I  have  been  set  up,  and  put  in  a  good 
hopeful  way  heavenward;  and  in  what  danger 
still  to  undo  myself,  after  all  the  great  things 
which  thou  hast  done  for  me.  O  Lord  of  love, 
have  pity  on  my  infirmities,  and  strengthen  me  in 
my  weakness.  Preserve  me,  thou  blessed  Guardi- 
an of  thy  people,  who  keepest  the  feet  of  thy 
saints;  O  preserve  me  from  the  danger  of  aposta- 
cy,  and  falling  away  from  any  good  beginnings, 
to  which  thy  grace  has  ever  wrought  me;  and  put 
thy  fear  in  my  heart,  that  I  may  not  depart  from 
thee.  Make  me  so  firmly  thine,  that  nothing 
which  befalls  me  in  the  world  may  ever  part  be- 
twixt thee  and  my  soul;  and  make  me  so  resolute 
for  thy  service,  that  nothing  which  any  can  say 
or  do,  may  interrupt  me  in,  or  take  me  off  that 
way  of  life  which  is  above  to  the  wise,  to  depart 
from  hell  beneath.  O  let  me  not  be  of  the  num- 
ber of  those  that  draw  back  to  perdition ;  but  of 
that  happy  number  who  do  believe,  to  the  saving 
of  the  soul. 

O  Lord  God !  thou  hast  begun  to  show  thy  ser- 


260  In  Prosperity. 

vant  thy  greatness ;  and  thy  mighty  hand ;  go  on, 
I  pray  thee,  to  work  for  the  glory  of  thy  name, 
and  perfect  that  which  concerns  me.  Thou  hast 
been  my  help,  leave  me  not,  nor  forsake  me,  0 
God  of  my  salvation;  but  hold  thou  me  up,  and  I 
shall  be  safe,  and  I  will  have  respect  to  thy  sta- 
tutes continually.  Stablish,  O  Lord,  strengthen 
and  settle  me,  and  leave  me  no  will  nor  power  to 
resist  the  gracious  designs  and  methods  of  thy 
love  and  mercy,  for  the  healing  and  saving  of  my 
soul.  And  as  I,  by  my  frailty,  still  do  renew  my 
sins,  gracious  Lord,  through  thy  mercy,  renew 
me  to  repentance ;  and  though  I  fall,  let  me  not 
be  utterly  cast  down ;  but  uphold  me  with  thy 
Almighty  hand;  preserve  me  to  thy  heavenly 
kingdom;  and  keep  me  by  the  power  of  God, 
through  faith  to  salvation.  O  make  me  so  faith- 
ful until  death,  that  thou  mayest  give  to  me  the 
crown  of  life;  so  to  endure  to  the  end,  that  I  may 
be  saved;  that  in  the  end  of  my  life  I  may  re- 
ceive the  glorious  consummation  of  all  my  hopes, 
that  blessed  end  of  my  faith,  the  eternal  salvation 
of  my  soul.  Amen,  Amen. 

A  Prayer  in  Prosperity. 

BLESSED  God,  rich  in  goodness  and  mer- 
cy! thou  art  the  portion  of  my  inheritance 
and  of  my  cup ;  thou  maintainest  my  lot.  The 
lines  are  fallen  to  me  in  pleasant  places,  and  I 
have  a  goodly  heritage.  I  abound  and  am  full  of 
thy  good  things,  and  surrounded  on  every  side 
with  thy  mercies.  And  so  thou  makest  my  af- 
fairs succeed  to  my  mind,  that  I  cannot  but  be 
pleased  and  satisfied  with  my  condition,  and  de- 
sire with  all  the  soul  to  acknowledge,  and  bless 
and  praise  thee,  for  all  thy  special  favours, 


In  Prosperity.  261 

wherein  thou  hast  made  me  to  differ.  Glory  be 
to  thee,  O  Lord,  who  hast  dealt  so  well  with  thy 
unworthy  servant,  and  signalized  me  with  such 
great  and  sundry  blessings.  But  when  thou  hast 
made  my  mountain  to  stand  strong,  1  must  not 
say  in  my  prosperity,  I  shall  never  be  moved  ; 
whereas,  I  know  not  what  shall  be  on  the  mor- 
row, nor  how  soon  the  sun  may  be  hid  that  now 
shines  upon  me.  O  Lord !  in  the  time  of  my 
health  and  peace  and  prosperity,  help  me  to  re- 
member, and  provide  for  the  time  of  trouble  and 
sickness  and  death;  when  the  world's  enjoyments 
will  shrink  away  from  me,  and  prove  utterly  un- 
able to  support  ?md  relieve  me.  Yea,  because 
the  prosperity  of  fools  destroys  them;  and  the 
gaining  the  world  is  the  loss  of  so  many  souls ; 
and  that  men  of  the  world  have  all  their  portion 
in  this  life,  grant,  O  heavenly  Father,  that  this 
may  not  be  my  portion;  that  I  may  not  abuse  the 
world's  good  to  my  dishonour,  and  my  own  undo- 
ing, nor  turn  the  gifts  of  thy  bounty  into  weapons 
of  rebellion  against  thee,  but  use  them  in  humi- 
lity and  sobriety,  and  thy  holy  fear;  doing  the 
better  service  to  thee,  the  greater  obligations  thou 
layest  upon  me;  yea,  making  many  others  to  fare 
the  better  for  such  thy  bounty  to  thy  servant.  O 
make  me  as  willing,  as  thou  hast  made  me  able, 
to  refresh  the  bowels  of  such  as  want  what  I  do 
enjoy;  and  as  freely  to  give  as  I  have  received; 
that  riches  may  not  be  kept  to  my  hurt,  but  laid 
out  to  do  myself  and  others  real  good. — As  I  have 
opportunity,  let  me  do  good  to  all,  especially  to 
them  who  are  of  the  household  of  faith. 

O  gracious  Lord !  take  the  snare  out  of  my 
worldly  enjoyments,  and  preserve  me  from  the 
danger  and  destruction  that  so  commonly  attends 


For  the  Enlargement 

a  full  and  prosperous  condition;  and  rather  turn 
me  out  of  all  my  earthly  possessions,  than  that 
they  should  lie  in  my  way,  to  stop  me  out  of  thy 
heavenly  kingdom.  O  let  me  not  want  the  afflic- 
tion which  thou  knowest  needful  to  my  salvation; 
and  though  thou  makest  me  poor  or  givest  me 
trouble,  let  me  be  contented  and  bless  thy  name ; 
even  taking  away  from  me  as  well  as  giving  to 
me.  But  whatever  I  have  here  to  enjoy,  O  let 
me  never  set  my  heart  upon  it,  nor  trust  in  un- 
certain riches,  but  in  the  ever-living  God,  who 
alone  can  be  to  my  immortal  soul,  a  never  failing 
portion.  O  preserve  me  from  the  pride  and  for- 
getfulness  of  God,  and  love  of  the  world,  and  all 
the  vices  and  corruptions  incident  to  a  high  and 
plentiful  estate :  and  let  none  of  my  abundance 
or  success  in  the  world,  ever  puff  me  up  with  a 
proud  conceit  of  myself,  or  a  scornful  disdain  of 
others,  or  wanton  kicking  against  the  Lord.  O  let 
it  not  pull  me  from  thee ;  but  with  the  cords  of 
love  do  thou  draw  me  nearer  to  thee;  and  with 
all  my  other  plenty,  my  God,  let  me  have  the  ful- 
ness of  thy  grace,  and  be  rich  in  good  works,  and 
with  all  my  other  successes,  O  that  my  soul  may 
prosper,  and  be  well  in  thy  blessed  favour,  and 
made  glad  with  saving  mercy,  and  thy  good  ac- 
ceptance of  me  in  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

Ji  Prayer  for  the  Enlargement  and  Prosperity  of  the 
Church. 

OGOD  of  all  grace,  who  hast  called  out  of 
this  present  evil  world  a  chosen  generation, 
to  know  thy  will,  to  seek  thy  face,  to  follow  thy 
ways,  and  to  inherit  thy  glory;  bless  all  thy  peo- 
ple every  where,  and  cause  thy  face  to  shine 
upon  them;  and  so  add  to  their  number,  that  all 


and  Prosperity  of  the  Church*  263 

the  ends  of  the  earth  may  remember  themselves, 
and  turn  to  the  Lord,  and  see  the  salvation  of  our 
God.  Call  home  to  thee  again  thy  once  only  peo- 
ple the  Jews;  and  take  the  veil  off  their  hearts, 
that  they  may  see  and  own  their  Messias;  and  let 
that  blood  of  Christ,  which  they  imprecated  upon 
their  heads,  to  their  confusion,  light  on  their  hearts, 
to  their  conversion.  Bring  in  the  fulness  of  the 
Gentiles;  and  give  thy  Son  the  heathen  for  his  in- 
heritance, and  the  utmost  parts  of  the  earth  for 
his  possession.  O  give  thy  gospel  a  free  and  ef- 
fectual passage  throughout  the  world,  that  it  may 
be  further  propagated  where  it  has  not  yet  reach- 
ed, and  the  joyful  sound  may  be  heard,  even 
where  Christ  is  not  yet  named ;  and  give  such 
good  success  to  it,  where  it  shines  already,  that 
all  who  have  received  it  may  sincerely  obey  it; 
and  every  one  who  names  the  name  of  Christ,  may 
depari  from  iniquity ;  and  let  their  light  shine  be- 
fore men,  to  the  glory  of  our  heavenly  Father, 
and  to  the  adorning  of  thy  doctrine  and  advanc- 
ing the  religion  of  God  our  Saviour. 

Convince  and  convert  both  the  professed  ene- 
mies of  Christ,  and  also  the  enemies  of  his  own 
house.  Beat  down  all  antichristian  powers,  berth 
in  the  false  church,  where  Christianity  is  so 
foully  corrupted;  and  also  beyond  the  borders 
of  Christendom,  where  it  is  openly  opposed.  O 
show  unto  them  all  the  light  of  thy  truth ;  that 
they  may  know  it,  as  it  is  in  Jesus,  and  expel 
their  prejudices,  together  with  their  darkness: 
and  so  bring  them  to  receive  thy  truth  in  the  love 
of  it,  that  they  may  be  saved.  O  that  the  true  re- 
ligion of  our  Lord  Jesus  may  prevail  powerfully, 
and  gain  more  proselytes  daily  throughout  the 
world ;  that  Jerusalem  may  be  the  joy  and  praise 


264        For  the  Reformed  Churches  abroad. 

of  the  whole  earth;  and  that  we  may  see  the  good 
of  it  all  the  days  of  our  life !  and  O  that  all  the 
errors,  both  in  judgment  and  practice,  the  here- 
sies of  doctrine,  and  the  ungodliness  of  life,  may 
be  more  and  more  exposed  and  confounded,  and 
suppressed,  till  they  be  utterly  abolished !  that 
the  wickedness  of  the  wicked,  being  under  re- 
buke and  disgrace,  may  come  to  an  end;  and  that 
truth  and  peace,  and  holiness,  may  get  still  more 
credit  and  authority;  and  reign  and  flourish  to 
the  ends  of  the  earth ;  through  the  abundant  grace 
of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

Jl  Prayer  for  the  Reformed  Churches  abroad. 

BLESS,  O  Lord,  in  especial  manner,  all  the 
churches  that  profess  thy  holy  and  eternal 
truth.  Protect  them  from  the  enemies  that  have 
evil  will  at  Sion;  preserve  them  in  the  faith,  and 
restore  to  them  peace  where  it  is  Hot,  and  con- 
tinue it  to  them  where  it  is.  Thou  hast  showed 
thy  people  hard  things!  thou  hast  made  them  to 
drink  the  wine  of  astonishment :  O  how  long  shall 
thy  anger  smoke  against  the  sheep  of  thy  pasture! 
make  them  glad  according  to  the  time  wherein 
thou  hast  afflicted  them,  and  wherein  they  have 
seen  adversity.  Lord,  how  long  shall  the  wicked 
triumph!  How  long  shall  they  utter  and  speak, 
and  take  crafty  counsel  against  thy  people,  and 
consult  against  thy  hidden  ones!  Arise,  O  God, 
plead  thy  own  cause ;  remember  how  the  foolish 
man  blasphemeth  thee  daily !  Help,  Lord,  for  the 
godly  man  ceaseth;  for  the  faithful  fail  from 
among  the  children  of  men.  O  that  thou  wouldst 
arise  and  have  mercy  upon  Sion ;  and  that  the 
time  to  favour  her,  the  set  time,  were  come ! 
Thou  art  our  King,  O  God ;  command  deliver 


For  the  Reformed  Churches  abroad.         265 

ances  for  Jacob.  Arise  for  thy  servant's  help,  and 
redeem  them  for  thy  mercy's  sake.  Let  not  the 
rod  of  the  wicked  rest  upon  the  lot  of  the  righte- 
ous ;  but  give  a  check  and  stop  to  the  persecuting 
spirit  that  breaks  in  pieces  thy  people,  O  Lord, 
and  afflicts  thy  heritage.  When  such  wicked  ene- 
mies come  to  eat  them  up,  see  them  stumble  and 
fall ;  and  let  thy  people  never  be  ashamed.  Yea, 
not  only  restrain  the  remainder  of  that  wrath ;  but 
so  turn  it  as  thou  didst  in  the  persecuting  Saul, 
that  the  enemies  and  opposers  of  thy  ways  and 
servants  may  become  lovers  and  followers  of  the 
same. 

9  hear  the  sighs  and  support  the  spirits," repair 
the  breaches,  and  hasten  the  deliverance  of  thy 
servants,  who  suffer  for  the  testimony  of  thy  truth, 
and  are  persecuted  for  righteousness'  sake:  yea, 
for  thy  sake,  are  killed  all  the  day  long,  and 
counted  as  sheep  for  the  slaughter.  O  make  thy 
face  to  shine  upon  thy  servants;  and  redeem  Is- 
rael out  of  all  his  troubles.  Be  thou,  Lord,  a  re- 
fuge for  the  oppressed ;  a  refuge  in  time  of  trouble ; 
and  come  in  to  their  succour;  and  make  them  a 
way  to  escape  out  of  the  hands  of  such  unreason- 
able men,  whose  mercies  are  cruel.  O  break 
thou  the  arm  of  the  wicked  and  evil  man,  and 
judge  the  oppressed,  that  the  men  of  the  earth 
may  no  more  oppress.  Showr  thy  marvellous 
loving  kindness,  that  thou  savest  by  thy  right 
hand  them  that  trust  in  thee,  from  those  that  rise 
up  against  them.  When  their  power  is  gone, 
make  known  thy  own;  and  when  there  is  none  to 
help,  reveal  thy  own  arm  to  bring  salvation.  Such 
as  are  banished,  and  driven  to  seek  their  bread 
in  strange  countries,  leaving  all  else  behind  them, 
that  they  might  take  their  religion  along  with  them, 

Z 


266  For  our  Church. 

Lord,  grant  them  to  find  favour  with  those  among 
whom  they  are  scattered ;  and  of  thy  fatherly  care, 
provide  for  them;  and,  in  thy  good  time  restore 
them  to  their  possessions,  and  to  sure  habitations, 
and  quiet  resting  places.  Or  if  thou  wilt  not 
abate  them  the  troubles  on  earth,  yet  Lord,  let 
theirs  be  the  kingdom  of  heaven.  For  the  out- 
ward comforts  which  they  have  lost,  O  give  them 
heavenly  joys  within,  and  everlasting  consola- 
tions. And  by  their  persecution  arid  dispersion, 
prepare  them  for,  and  conduct  and  hasten  them 
to  the  blessed  rest,  which  remains  for  thy  peo- 
ple, and  the  more  glorious  rewards  in  those  hea- 
venly mansions  above,  where  such  as  die  in  the 
Lord  rest  from  their  labours,  and  their  works  fol- 
low them.  That  there,  out  of  the  reach  of  all 
disturbance  and  danger,  they  may  sing  thy  praise 
for  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  our  Church. 

BLESSED  be  thy  name,  O  Lord  our  God, 
who  hast  called  us  to  be  thy  people;  and 
caused  the  day-spring  from  on  high  to  visit  us, 
and  the  light  of  thy  gospel  to  shine  upon  us. 
Thou  hast  sent  to  us  the  word  of  salvation;  and 
made  thy  holy  religion  to  be  our  birth-right,  and 
the  professed  religion  of  our  nation.  Thou  hast 
not  been  deficient  in  kindness  to  us,  gracious 
Lord;  but  O  how  short  have  we  come  of  our 
duty  which  we  owe  to  thee,  our  God!  Great 
things  still,  time  after  time,  thou  hast  done  in  our 
behalf:  but  O  how  little  have  we  done  in  thy  ser- 
vice; and  how  much  against  thy  holy,  good  and 
righteous  laws !  We  have  long  experienced  thy 
care  and  kindness,  as  the  vineyard  of  the  Lord; 
which  thy  right  hand  has  planted !  Thou  hast 


For  our  Church.  267 

hedged  us  about  with  thy  providence,  digged  and 
pruned  us  with  thy  judgments,  watered  and  re- 
freshed us  with  thy  mercies;  and  justly  mightest 
thou,  after  all,  expect  the  good  fruits  from  us. 
But  alas !  our  greatest  fruitfulness  has  been  in  the 
briers  and  thorns  of  contention,  and  the  unfruit- 
ful works  of  darkness,  to  dishonour  the  blessed 
name  by  which  we  are  called,  and  to  affront  the 
heavenly  goodness,  whereby  we  have  been  ob- 
liged. So  unworthy  have  we  walked  of  our  holy 
vocation,  and  so  little  is  it  to  be  seen  among  us 
how  much  thou  hast  done  for  us,  that  we  must 
confess,  O  Lord,  thou  mightest  justly  take  away 
the  gospel  of  the  kingdom  from  us,  and  give  to 
another  people,  that  should  bring  forth  fruits 
more  worthy  of  it,  and  more  answerable  to  it, 
than  we  have  done. 

But,  O  gracious,  long-suffering  God,  who  in 
judgment  hast  ever  remembered  mercy  towards 
us!  enter  not  so  into  judgment  with  us,  for  our 
unmindfulness  of  thee,  and  our  boldness  with 
thee ;  our  barrenness  under  all  the  means  of  grace, 
our  ingratitude  for  the  most  precious  benefits, 
and  our  abuses  of  the  innumerable  blessings,  and 
favours  pertaining  to  this  life  and  a  better,  which 
we  so  long  have  enjoyed;  nor  remember  our  sins 
against  us;  but  remember  thy  own  tender  mer- 
cies, and  loving  kindnesses,  which  have  been  ever 
of  old.  O  say  not  of  this  land,  thou  hast  no  plea- 
sure in  it;  but  return,  we  beseech  thee,  O  God  of 
hosts;  look  down  from  heaven,  behold  and  visit 
this  vineyard,  and  the  branch  which  thou  makest 
strong  for  thyself.  Be  thou  as  a  wall  of  fire  about 
our  church,  to  check  the  malice,  and  break  the 
forces  of  all  that  would  invade  the  peace,  corrupt 
the  purity,  and  destroy  the  prosperity  of  it.  And 


268  The  Magistrate's  Prayer. 

be  thou  as  a  refiner's  fire,  and  like  fuller's  soap 
in  the  midst  of  us,  to  purge  away  our  dross,  and 
to  purify  us  yet  more  from  all  remaining  errors 
and  corruptions;  that  righteousness  may  be  the 
foundation  of  the  walls  of  our  church,  and  peace 
the  ornament  of  her  palaces. 

O  may  that  right  hand  of  thine  which  does  va- 
liantly, work  wonders  for  our  safety.  Especially, 
be  thou  pleased,  Lord,  to  work  such  a  holy  re- 
formation upon  us,  that  we  may  be  a  truly  reform- 
ed people,  as  well  as  so  called;  a  peculiar  people, 
zealous  of  good  works;  a  people  eminent  for  that 
righteousness  which  exalts  a  nation ;  that  thou, 
the  righteous  Lord,  who  lovest  righteousness, 
mayest  bless  us,  and  with  favour  compass  us  as 
with  a  shield ;  and  cause  thy  anger  towards  us  to 
cease ;  and  rejoice  over  us  to  do  us  good.  After 
all  the  methods  for  our  good,  that  we  have  resist- 
ed, O  what  shall  we  ask,  but  that  thou  wouldst 
be  pleased,  O  Lord  our  God,  to  do  for  us,  what 
thou  knowest  effectual  to  reclaim  and  save  us? 
and  after  all  the  grace  of  God  that  we  have  re- 
ceived in  vain,  O  give  us  the  grace  which  we 
may  not  withstand  or  abuse,  but  comply  with  it, 
to  make  us  such  as  thou  wouldst  have  us;  and  to 
secure  to  us  all  thy  saving  mercies  in  Jesus  Christ, 
our  blessed  Lord,  and  only  Saviour.  Amen. 

The   Magistrate's  Prayer. 

OTHOU  great  and  supreme  Ruler  of  all  the 
world !  by  whom  all  the  governors  on  earth 
are  set  up,  to  restrain  the  unruly,  and  to  favour 
thy  people;  though  thou  needest  not  the  services 
of  men  or  angels  to  assist  thee;  but  canst  imme- 
diately, by  thyself,  do  whatever  thou  pleasest  in 
heaven  and  in  earth,  with  the  least  word  of  thj 


The  Magistrate's  Prayer.  269 

mouth,  with  the  least  motion  of  thy  will,  yet  thou 
art  pleased  to  honour  some  of  thy  creatures  as 
thy  vicegerents,  and  to  order  and  govern  the  sons 
of  men,  by  those  of  their  own  kind,  exalting  some 
chosen  out  of  the  people,  to  preside  and  rule  over 
the  rest.  Me  thou  hast  called,  Lord,  to  this 
honour,  and  hast  been  pleased  to  set  me  above 
the  common  lot  of  men,  as  one  of  the  little  repre- 
sentatives of  thy  blessed  self.  O  King  of  glory! 
I  wilt  exalt  thee,  who  has  vouchsafed  to  raise  me, 
and  as  thou  hast  made  me  to  differ  from  others  in 
this  dignity,  so  make  me  to  excel  in  every  praise- 
worthy property.  O  that  I  may  represent  not  only 
thy  power  and  majesty,  but  thy  wisdom  and  holi- 
ness, thy  truth  and  goodness,  thy  justice  and  mer- 
cy. O  that  I  may  retain  a  lowly  mind  in  my  high 
station,  and  not  forget  or  lift  up  myself,  nor  insult 
over  my  poor  inferiors :  but,  like  the  great  God, 
who  despises  not  any,  may  1  condescend  to  men 
of  low  estate ;  and  without  respect  of  persons, 
judge  according  to  every  man's  work;  yea,  de- 
light to  rescue  and  succour  the  injured  and  op- 
pressed ;  to  deliver  the  needy  when  he  cries,  the 
poor  also,  and  him  that  has  no  helper. 

O !  may  I  rather  fear  my  accounts,  than  be 
proud  of  my  office;  and  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord, 
let  me  ever  be  careful  to  execute  that  which  is 
righteous  in  the  sight  of  God;  and  with  all  faith- 
fulness to  discharge  my  trust,  as  one  that  must  be 
judged  myself  and  find  the  same  measure  with 
which  I  mete.  And  seeing  the  eyes  of  all  are 
upon  me,  and  my  place  exposes  me  the  more  to 
common  notice,  and  my  example  has  a  greater 
influence  than  that  of  a  private  ordinary  man ;  O 
make  me  Lord,  the  more  vigilant  and  cautious  in 
the  inspection  of  mvsclf  and  the  ordering  of  rnv 


270  The  Magistrate's  Prayer. 

conversation  aright;  that  I  may  not  embolden 
others  to  commit  such  wickedness  as  I  ought  to 
punish,  nor  lead  people  into  the  sin  and  ruin 
which  1  should  help  to  save  them  from;  nor  be  a 
scandal  and  grief  of  heart  to  the  holy  followers 
of  Jesus,  whom  I  am  set  up  to  patronize,  and 
comfort;  but  let  my  Conversation  be  such,  as 
shall  put  to  confusion  dissolute  and  exorbitant 
sinners,  as  well  as  my  justice  strike  terror  into 
the  evil-doers.  O  make  me  a  hearty  lover  of  all 
good  men,  and  one  that  honours  them  who  fear 
the  Lord.  Make  me  ever  ready  and  forward  to 
defend,  and  countenance,  and  encourage  the  gene- 
ration of  thy  children,  such  as  live  godly  in  Christ 
Jesus.  And  let  me  with  courage  exert  my  au- 
thority in  a  zealous  vindication  of  thy  glory;  and 
in  asserting  the  rights,  and  promoting  the  growth 
and  advancement  of  thy  true  and  holy  religion. 
O  that  the  honour  of  thy  name,  and  the  interest 
of  thy  kingdom,  and  the  welfare  of  thy  church 
and  chosen,  may  be  ever  next  my  heart,  that 
above  all  things  I  may  seek  the  things  of  Jesus 
Christ ;  and  truly  and  indifferently  minister  justice 
to  the  punishment  of  wickedness  and  vice,  and  to 
the  maintenance  of  thy  true  religion  and  virtue. 
And  all  the  power  and  interest  that  I  have  in  the 
world,  O  may  I  so  lay  it  out,  for  the  service  of  thy 
holy  truth,  and  set  forward  the  blessed  design  of 
the  gospel  of  thy  dear  Son,  that  after  my  advance- 
ment here,  I  may  not  be  thrown  down  hereafter ; 
nor  receive  the  dreadful  doom,  for  betraying  my 
trust,  and  abusing  my  authority;  but  may  appear 
with  comfort  and  joy  before  my  Judge,  whose 
holy  cause  I  espoused  and  advanced;  and  whose 
faithful  servants  I  sheltered  and  cherished,  and 
showed  the  greatest  kindness  to  them;  and  with 


A  Prayer  for  Bishops  and  Pastors.        271 

them  may  be  raised  at  the  last  to  that  highest  of 
all  bliss  and  glory,  which  shall  endure  for  ever- 
more. Jltwn. 


A  Prayer  for  all  our  Bishops,  Pastors,  and  Ministers. 

OLORD,  most  high,  the  glorious  head  of  all 
the  church!  who  hast  appointed  various 
offices  in  it,  for  the  perfecting  of  the  saints,  for  the 
work  of  the  ministry,  for  the  edifying  of  the  body 
of  Christ;  bless  in  especial  manner  all  those 
whom  thou  hast  sent  to  bless  the  people  in  thy 
name ;  and  make  all  our  spiritual  fathers  careful 
and  tender  nursing  fathers  of  the  church.  Grant 
them  knowledge  and  grace,  both  to  manage  them- 
selves, and  order  their  conversation  aright:  and 
also  to  watch  for  souls,  and  feed  the  flock  of  God, 
and  take  the  oversight  thereof,  not  by  constraint, 
but  willingly;  not  for  filthy  lucre,  but  of  a  ready 
mind;  caring  for  all  committed  to  their  charge, 
and  giving  to  every  one  his  portion  in  due  season : 
that  they  may  rightly  divide  thy  word,  and  speak 
it  as  they  ought  to  speak,  and  do  thy  work  as  thy 
workmen,  that  ueed  not  be  ashamed.  O  make 
them  skilful  and  faithful  in  their  sacred  callings, 
and  successful  and  happy  in  their  good  endea- 
vours to  promote  the  knowledge  and  love  of  thy 
truth,  and  all  the  duties  of  a  holy  life.  And  let 
both  their  example  and  their  doctrine  be  such,  a»s 
shall  help  to  save  themselves  and  those  that  hear 
them.  O  that  they  may  speak  as  the  oracles  of 
God,  in  demonstration  of  the  spirit  and  of  power; 
and  that  they  may  show  themselves  patterns  of  all 
the  good  things  which  they  preach  to  others;  not 
prostituting  their  holy  calling  to  serve  the  inte- 
rests and  lusts  of  men;  but  conscientiously  dis- 
charging it,  to  the  glory  of  their  Lord !  not 


272        A  Prayer  for  Bishops  and  Pastors. 

walking  in  craftiness,  nor  handling  the  word  of 
God  deceitfully;  but  by  manifestation  of  the  truth, 
commending  themselves  to  every  man's  con- 
science, in  the  sight  of  God;  and  being  so  good 
ensamples  to  the  flock,  that  having  preached  to 
others,  themselves  may  not  be  castaways,  but  ex- 
perience the  joy  of  that  salvation  which  they 
preach;  and  when  the  chief  Shepherd  shall  ap- 
pear, receive  the  crown  of  glory  that  fadeth  not 
away. 

Though  the  world  hates,  and  the  devil  opposes 
them,  and  even  many  that  should  encourage  their 
labours,  do  but  strive  to  weaken  their  hands,  and 
afflict  their  hearts,  O  great  and  good  Lord!  do 
thou  show  thy  own  strength,  to  accomplish  thy 
own  work.  Open  a  wide  door  to  the  gospel,  and 
defeat  all  opposition;  stop  the  mouths  of  false 
prophets,  and  drive  away  ravenous  wolves  from 
the  flock,  and  give  them  faithful  pastors.  And 
Lord,  crown  the  endeavours  of  thy  messengers 
with  thy  heavenly  blessing;  that  they  may  be 
mighty  through  God,  to  pull  down  the  strong  holds 
of  sin;  and  to  edify  and  build  up  thy  church  in 
the  true  fear  and  love  of  God,  and  in  the  right 
knowledge  and  faith  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 
And  because  wise  men  die,  arid  cannot  bequeath 
their  learning  and  talents  unto  others:  to  supply 
breaches  made  upon  us  by  their  mortality,  bless 
our  universities,  and  all  the  schools  and  nurse- 
ries of  good  learning  and  true  religion  in  the  land, 
that  they  may  send  forth  men  able  and  apt  to 
serve  theein  church  and  state;  and  to  oblige  the 
world,  by  doing  good  in  their  generations,  and 
showing  people  the  way  to  be  happy  both  here 
ind  ever.  Amen. 


The  Author  for  himself  as  a  Minister.      27  S 

* 

The  Authors  Prayer  for  himself  as  a  Minister. 

O  BLESSED  Jesus,  my  Lord  and  my  God! 
what  high  honour  hast  thou  done  me  in  call- 
ing me  to  the  office  which  thou  wast  pleased  to 
take  upon  thyself!  who  earnest  riot  to  be  minis- 
tered to,  but  to  minister,  and  to  preach  the  gos- 
pel of  the  kingdom,  and  teach  the  way  of  salva- 
tion. All  glory  be  to  thee,  who  has  been  pleas- 
ed so  to  dignify  me;  but  as  thou  thyself,  the  head 
of  the  corner,  art  to  some  a  stone  of  stumbling, 
and  a  rock  of  offence;  so  thy  messengers  are  to 
them  that  perish,  the  savour  of  death  unto  death, 
as  well  as  to  them  that  are  saved,  the  savour  of 
life  unto  life.  And  if  thy  wise  and  holy  servant 
asked,  Who  is  sufficient  for  these  things?  Well 
may  I,  a  weak  and  sinful  wretch,  tremble  under 
the  work  of  the  ministry,  lest  the  blood  of  those 
that  perish,  through  my  neglect  and  default,  should 
be  required  at  my  hands,  and  lest  when  I  have 
showed  others  the  way  to  heaven,  I  myself  should 
be  shut  out :  but  I  look  unto  thee,  O  Lord,  my  life, 
my  strength  and  my  Redeemer,  who  hast  appoint- 
ed me  in  this  station,  to  accomplish  me  also  for  it. 

0  thou  that  ordainest  strength  out  of  the  mouths 
of  babes  and  sucklings,  magnify  thy  power  in  my 
weakness ;  and  show  thyself  so  graciously  and 
mightily  on  my  behalf,  that  I  may  do  all  things  as 

1  ought,  through  Christ  strengthening  me.    O  let 
me  learn  from  thee  what  I  shall  teach  concerning 
thee.     Open  my  understanding,  O  Lord,  that  I 
may  well  understand  the  scriptures,  and  rightly 
divide  the  word  of  truth ;  and  be  able,  by  sound 
doctrine,  both  to  exhort  and  convince  the  gain- 
sayers.  O  put  such  thoughts  into  my  mind,  and 
~uch  words  into  my  mouth,  that  put  of  the  abun 


274      The  Author  for  himself  as  a  Minister. 

dance  of  my  heart,  my  mouth  may  speak  to  the 
glory  of  thy  name,  and  to  the  edification  of  those 
unto  whom  I  make  my  application.  O  make  me 
wise  to  win  souls,  and  watchful  over  them,  as  one 
that  must  give  an  account  of  them;  not  entangling 
myself  in  the  affairs  of  this  life,  but  waiting  on  my 
ministry ;  taking  heed  to  myself,  and  to  my  doc- 
trine; studying  to  show  myself  approved  of  God, 
and  thoroughly  furnished  to  every  good  work. 
Give  me  skill  and  conduct,  prudently  to  steer  my 
course  through  all  difficulties  in  my  way;  and  give 
me  patience  and  courage  to  withstand  all  assaults 
and  opposition  which  I  have  to  encounter.  O 
my  Lord,  be  with  me,  and  guide  me,  and  help 
me,  and  strengthen  and  succour  me,  now  and  al- 
ways, in  the  great  work  lying  upon  me.  Open  to 
me  a  door  of  utterance,  that  I  may  speak  thy 
word  as  I  ought  to  speak;  and  make  me  faithful 
and  diligent,  arid  successful  in  my  sacred  calling; 
doing  thy  work  as  thy  workman,  that  need  not  be 
ashamed;  not  preaching  myself,  but  Christ  Jesus 
the  Lord;  nor  seeking  the  praise  of  men,  but  the 
honour  of  my  God;  yea,  make  me  an  example  of  I 
all  the  holy  properties,  and  praise  worthy  prac- 
tices which  I  preach  to  others;  that  I  may  not  lay 
upon  them  the  burdens  which  I  refuse  to  bear  my- 
self; but  go  before  them  in  the  ways  which  they 
are  to  follow ;  holding  forth  the  word  of  life  in  my 
conversation,  as  well  as  in  my  doctrine;  that  I 
may  shine  with  a  convincing  light  to  them,  and 
not  lay  a  stumbling  block  before  them;  neither 
making  the  heart  of  the  righteous  sad,  nor  strength- 
ening the  hands  of  the  wicked ;  nor  giving  just  of- 
fence to  any,  but  approving  myself  as  far  as  I  am 
able,  useful  and  beneficial  unto  all ;  keeping  un- 
der my  body,  and  bringing  it  into  subjection,  lest 


For  a  Blessing  upon  Societies ,  8fc.         275 

that  by  any  means,  when  I  have  preached  to  others, 
I  myself  should  be  a  castaway. 

And,  O  thou  that  givest  the  increase,  command 
a  blessing,  I  pray  thee,  upon  all  my  studies  and 
endeavours,  that  I  may  not  spend  my  strength  for 
naught,  nor  labour  in  vain;  but  that  I  may  make 
full  proof  of  my  ministry,  and  be  instrumental, 
through  thy  grace,  to  convert  the  unconverted, 
and  to  build  up  them  that  are  in  any  measure 
sanctified;  and  so  to  save  myself,  and  those  that 
hear  me,  that  when  I  have  finished  my  course,  I 
may  give  an  account  of  my  stewardship  with  joy, 
and  not  with  grief;  and  receive  the  crown  of 
righteousness  at  thy  hands,  not  for  my  merits,  but 
for  thy  mercies'  sake.  Amen.  Amen. 

A  Prayer  for  a  Blessing  upon  the  Societies  confede- 
rate to  promote,  Reformation  of  Manners. 
O  RIGHTEOUS  Lord !  thou  lovest  righteous- 
ness, and  thy  countenance  does  behold  the 
upright.  Thou  favourest  them  that  espouse  the 
righteous  cause,  and  wilt  for  ever  glorify  such  as 
turn  many  to  righteousness.  Thou  hast  not  only 
commanded  us  to  be  holy,  and  to  walk-  circum- 
spectly ourselves,  but  also  to  show  our  concern 
for  the  souls  of  others ;  to  contend  for  the  faith, 
and  contend  with  the  wicked,  and  not  suffer  sin 
upon  our  brother ;  but  applying  our  endeavours 
to  convert  the  sinner  from  the  error  of  his  ways ; 
and  to  recover  those  out  of  the  snare  of  the  devil, 
who  have  been  taken  captive  by  him  at  his  will. 
Help,  Lord,  for  the  godly  man  ceaseth,  and  the 
faithful  fail  from  among  the  children  of  men; 
even  all  seek  their  own ;  and  O  how  few  the  things 
that  are  Jesus  Christ's!  Arise,  O  God,  and  plead 
thy  own  cause;  and  be  with  them  that  rise  up 


276         For  a  Blessing  upon  Societies,  fyc. 

against  the  evil  doers,  and  that  strive  to  do  good 
to  this  present  evil  world,  by  a  merciful  severity, 
to  restrain  the  unruly  from  undoing  themselves ; 
and  by  executing  judgment,  to  stay  the  plague 
and  wrath  gone  out  from  the  Lord  against  us  all. 
Plead  their  cause,  O  Lord,  with  them  that  strive 
with  them,  and  stand  up  for  their  help;  and  stop 
the  way  against  them  that  persecute  them;  and 
make  them  successful  to  promote  the  honour  of 
thy  great  name,  and  the  interest  of  thy  holy  reli- 
gion. 

O  that  none  of  the  correctors  of  others  may  de- 
serve like  censure  themselves!  but  that  they 
may  all  be  blameless  and  harmless ;  the  sons  of 
God  without  rebuke,  in  the  midst  of  a  crooked 
and  perverse  nation,  among  whom  they  may  shine 
as  lights  in  the  world.  O  give  them  a  tender  love 
to  the  souls  of  men ;  a  zeal  according  to  know- 
ledge, and  prudent  conduct  to  walk  in  wisdom's 
wrays  towards  them  that  are  without.  And  give 
them  good  courage  to  endure  the  contradiction 
of  sinners,  and  count  it  a  small  thing  to  be  judged 
of  man's  judgment,  and  help  them  in  their  pa- 
tience to  possess  their  souls,  and  in  meekness  to 
instruct  those  that  oppose  themselves;  and  make 
the  weapons  of  their  warfare  mighty  through 
God,  to  the  pulling  down  of  strong  holds.  And 
so  speed  them  with  thy  heavenly  blessing,  that 
how  small  soever  was  their  beginning,  their  lat- 
ter end  may  greatly  increase.  O  let  them  go 
forth  in  thy  strength,  and  prevail  and  prosper,  as 
the  blessed  of  the  Lord. 

Though  we  are  cast  into  the  dregs  of  time, 
when  godliness  declines,  and  iniquity  abounds; 
and  almost  all  abominations  grow  daring  and 
impudent:  yet,  tliou.  Lord,  that  dost  marvellous 


For  a  Blessing  upon  Societies,  Sfc.          277 

things,  can  bring  light  out  of  darkness;  and  when 
thou  pleasest,  canst  change  the  face  of  evil  times. 
Yea,  glorious  things  .are  spoken  of  the  last  day; 
and  thy  word  foretels  such  aholy  and  happy  state 
of  things,  even  upon  earth,  as  this  sinful  and 
wrretched  world  does  not  yet  seem  to  have  been 
blest  with 

O  when  shall  it  be  Lord  ;  when  shall  judgment 
return  to  righteousness,  and  all  the  upright  in 
heart  follow  it  ?  O  when  shall  the  wickedness  of 
the  wicked  come  to  an  end  ?  and  profaneness  and 
lewdness,  debauchery  and  immorality,  intempe- 
rance and  extravagance,  be  put  to  confusion; 
and  all  iniquity  stop  her  mouth,  and  the  righteous 
flourish,  and  Jerusalem  be  the  joy  and  praise  of 
the  whole  earth! 

The  Lord  hasten  it  in  his  time;  and  in  the  mean 
while  give  a  check  from  heaven  to  the  floods  of 
ungodliness,  that  have  lifted  up  their  voice  and 
their  waves;  and  say  to  those  proud  waters, 
Hither  shall  ye  go,  and  no  further! 

O  cherish  and  prosper  all  good  beginnings, 
and  all  hopeful  proceedings  for  the  furtherance 
of  piety,  and  for  the  advancement  of  thy  glory. 
Make  magistrates  and  ministers,  and  all  orders 
of  men  vigilant  and  diligent  in  keeping  their  own 
hearts,  and  ordering  their  own  conversations 
aright;  and  also  to  set  forward,  what  in  them  lies 
the  reformation  and  edification  of  thy  neighbours; 
that  all  may  account  it  not  only  their  duty,  but 
their  honour  and  pleasure,  to  have  their  hands  in 
this  blessed  glorious  work,  and  may  do  it  hearti- 
ly, as  to  the  Lord;  to  the  bettering  of  the  world, 
and  to  the  rejoicing  of  all  that,  in  sincerity,  do 
love  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Amen* 
2  A 


278  J$  Prayer  for  our  Benefactor*. 

Jl  Prayer  for  our  Benefactors. 

I  DESIRE  with  all  thankfulness  to  acknow- 
ledge thy  loving  kindness,  O  Lord  my  God, 
that  thou  hast  given  me  so  many  comforts,  and 
raised  me  up  so  many  friends,  and  helps  in  the 
world.  It  is  thou,  Lord,  who  hast  the  hearts  of 
all  in  thy  hands,  that  turnest  the  hearts  of  any 
to  show  me  favour,  and  to  do  me  good.  They 
are  but  the  instruments  and  means  of  convey- 
ance; but  thou  art  the  blessed  Author  and  ori- 
ginal Fountain  of  all  the  kindness:  to  thee, 
therefore,  where  alone  it  is  due,  I  give  the  glory 
and  offer  the  sacrifice  of  praise.  But  for  them, 
whom  thou  hast  enabled,  and  also  inclined  to 
benefit  and  pleasure  me,  I  am  obliged  to  offer 
up  the  sacrifice  of  my  prayers.  O  be  thou  kind 
to  them,  Lord,  as  they  have  been  kind  to  me: 
refresh  their  bowels,  as  they  have  refreshed 
mine ;  and  requite  their  love,  and  all  their  en- 
dearing offices  of  friendship  sevenfold  into  their 
bosoms.  Make  me  studious  ever  to  approve  my- 
self grateful;  and  ready  to  make  all  fitting  returns 
in  my  power.  And  be  thou  pleased,  O  blessed 
God,  infinitely  good,  to  reward  them  where  I  can- 
not: yea,  turn  all  the  advantages  I  have  had  from 
them  to  their  own  greatest  advantage.  And  for 
their  goodness  and  their  kind  favours  give  them 
not  only  temporal  mercies,  but  heavenly  bless- 
ings, and  everlasting  consolations.  O  give  them 
Christ,  and  all  the  good  things  of  thy  Spirit  that 
accompany  salvation ;  yea,  give  them  thy  own  self, 
Lord,  who  art  all  in  all,  to  be  their  blessed  glo- 
rious portion  for  evermore.  Amen. 


Jl  Prayer  for  our  pious  Friends.          279 

A  Prayer  for  our  pious  Friends. 

GLORY  be  to  thee,  O  Lord,  for  thy  grace, 
discovered  upon  any  of  my  friends.    O  how 
great  is  thy  goodness,  which  thou  hast  laid  up 
for  them  that  fear  thee,  which  thou  hast  wrought 
for  them  that  trust  in  thee,  before  the  sons  of 
men.    Save  thy  people,  and  bless  thy  inheritance : 
feed  them  also,  and  lift  them  up  for  ever.     Let 
none  that  wait  on  thee,  O  Lord,  be  ashamed ;  but 
let  all  that  seek  thee,  rejoice  and  be  glad  in 
thee,  and  ever  have  cause  to  say,  the  Lord  be 
magnified  who  has  pleasure  in  the  prosperity  of 
his  servants.     O  do  good  to  them  that  are  up- 
right in  their  heart.     And  continue  thy  loving 
kindness,  Lord,  to  all  such  as  have  chose  the  bet- 
ter part;  and  still  desire  to  know,  and  fear  and 
love  thee  more,  and  to  serve  and  please  thee  bet- 
ter. O  answer  them  in  the  wishes  of  their  hearts, 
whose  hearts  thou  knowest  to  be  set  upon  the 
increase  of  thy  grace  and  perfecting  holiness  in 
thy  fear.   Lead  them  on  from  strength  to  strength, 
from  one  degree  of  saving  knowledge  and  grace 
to  another;  till,  from  shining  here  as  lights  in  the 
world,  they  come  to  shine  as  the  stars,  and  as 
the  brightness  of  the  firmament,  in  the  kingdom 
of  their  Father,  for  ever  and  ever.     And  while 
they  are  in  the  world,  O  do  thou  keep  them,  good 
Lord,  from  the  evil  of  it;  and  bless  and  prosper 
all  their  designs  and  endeavours,  to  do  still  more 
and  more  good  in  it;  that  all  about  them  may  be 
the  better  for  them,  and  that  themselves,  when 
come  to  the  end  of  their  pilgrimage  here,  may  de- 
part in  peace,  and  hope,  and  joy;  and  find  their 
grace   exchanged    for  the  crown  of  glory  that 
fadeth  not  away;  among  all  the  redeemed  and 


280  *A  Prayer  for  a  Friend. 

blessed  of  the  Lord,  where  they  will  admire  and 
enjoy  thy  love,  and  extol  and  magnify  thy  name 
for  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  our  Friend  whose  Soul  we  fear  to  be 
in  a  dangerous  Condition. 

OLORD,  it  was  a  mighty  concernment  upon 
the  spirit  of  thy  holy  apostle,  that  made 
him  declare,  he  had  great  heaviness  and  continual 
sorrow  in  his  heart,  and  could  wish  himself  accursed 
from  Christ,  for  his  brethren,  his  kinsmen,  according 
to  the  flesh:  and  somewhat  like  to  this,  tliou  know- 
est  I  feel  in  myself,  with  reference  to  some  of  my 

relations,  especially  my  poor  friend 5 

who  seems  to  be  even  in  the  gall  of  bitterness  and 
the  bond  of  iniquity :  setting  himself  in  a  way  that 
is  far  from  good,  and  lying  under  the  danger  to 
be  for  ever  lost.  O  what  shall  I  do  for  him  ?  and 
how  shall  I  apply  myself  to  be  helpful  to  him?  I 
would  be  taught  of  God;  and  I  desire  to  learn  wis- 
dom of  thee,  my  Lord,  and  to  be  enabled  by  thy 
grace,  to  use  the  methods  and  expedients  that 
shall  be  most  probable  and  successful  to  work 
upon  him,  and  to  do  him  good.  O  instruct  me 
in  the  way  that  I  shall  take,  and  assist  and  bless 
me  in  the  means  and  endeavours  I  shall  use  to 
attain  this  desirable  end. 

Yea,  thou  great  Almighty  God,  who  workest 
all  in  all,  and  canst  do  whatever  thou  pleasest, 
to  enlighten  the  darkest  mind,  to  fashion  the  hard- 
est hearts,  conquer  the  stubbornest  will  and  to 
turn  even  the  most  hopeless  sinners  to  thyself; 
O  be  thou  pleased  to  show  the  irresistable  effi- 
cacy of  thy  heavenly  grace  in  the  case  that  is  so 
sad,  and  worthy  of  thyself  to  relieve.  Be  pleased, 
O  Lord,  to  break  in  powerfully  upon  him,  and  dis- 


Jl  Prayer  for  a  Friend.  281 

cover  to  him  what  is  amiss  with  him :  and  make 
him  to  know  the  danger  of  his  sins,  and  in  what 
condition  his  soul  is.  And  open,  Lord,  his  eyes, 
and  soften  his  heart,  and  turn  his  course,  and 
break  the  force  of  his  temptations;  and  so  make 
him  a  way  to  escape  out  of  the  enemy's  hands; 
that  even  the  dead  may  hear  the  voice  of  the  Son 
of  God  and  live.  That  the  presumptuous  may 
be  startled,  and  the  secure  awakened,  and  he  that 
is  so  far  gone  yet  recovered:  Yea,  that  the  lost 
sheep  may  be  brought  home,  and  the  sinner  so 
repent  and  be  converted,  that  his  sins  may  be 
blotted  out,  and  his  soul  be  thoroughly  healed, 
and  mercifully  accepted,  and  eternally  saved. 

O  gracious  God,  thou  hast  no  pleasure  in  the 
death  of  the  wicked,  but  art  reconcilable  in  the 
Son  of  thy  love,  to  the  very  worst  of  thy  enemies, 
and  not  willing  that  any  should  perish.  O  what 
profit  is  there  in  his  blood !  how  shall  the  dead 
and  damned  praise  thee  ?  Lord  of  all  power  and 
mercy,  get  thee  glory  in  his  recovery.  O  speak 
the  word,  and  thy  sinful  creature  shall  live,  and 
for  ever  bless  thy  name.  Dear  Father,  for- 
give him  all  the  evil  thoughts  and  devices  of  his 
heart,  and  all  the  offensive  wicked  carriage  of 
his  life.  Forgive  him  all  his  sins  of  omission  and 
commission;  and  bring  him  out  of  all  the  ways  of 
wickedness  and  ruin,  into  which  he  hath  struck 
out;  O  bring  him  at  last,  with  purpose  of  heart, 
to  resign  and  give  up  himself  to  the  Lord:  and 
make  him  diligent  to  retrieve  himself,  and  full  of 
care  for  his  soul,  and  very  conscientious  and  zeal- 
ous in  all  the  practices  of  piety  and  honesty,  and 
charity  and  sobriety;  whereby  he  may  approve 
himself  to  be  trulv  changed  and  quite  another 
2  A3 


282  Ji  Prayer  for  the  Unconverted. 

manner  of  person  than  he  has  been,  in  all  holy 
conversation  and  godliness. 

O  grant  him  an  inheritance  among  them  that 
are  sanctified,  through  faith  in  Christ  Jesus;  and 
send  down  that  renewing  grace  into  his  heart, 
which  may  be  there  as  a  well  of  water,  springing 
up  to  everlasting  life.  Thus  comfort  and  rejoice 
the  soul  of  thy  servant,  O  Lord,  who  ,does  wait 
upon  thee,  and  cry  unto  thee,  for  such  thy  saving 
mercy,  to  be  shown  upon  me  and  mine,  particu- 
larly upon  this  near  ally,  whom  I  bewail  and  re- 
commend to  thy  grace;  even  for  thy  own  mercy's 
sake,  in  the  great  Lover  and  Saviour  of  souls, 
who  came  to  seek  the  lost,  and  to  call  sinners  to 
repentance,  even  thy  dearly  beloved  Son,  our 
blessed  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


Jl  Prayer  for  the  Unconverted. 

OLORD  God,  gracious  and  merciful!  thou 
art  good  to  all ;  and  thy  tender  mercies  are 
over  all  thy  works.  And  thou  hast  assured  us, 
that  thou  hast  no  pleasure  in  the  death  of  the 
wicked;  but  that  he  should  turn  from  his  way 
and  live.  Yea,  thou  that  didst  call  Zaccheus  an 
old  sinner,  and  Saul  a  fierce  persecutor,  hast  the 
power  over  all  hearts  in  thy  hands,  to  fashion 
them  as  thou  wilt;  and  canst,  even  out  of  stones, 
raise  up  children  to  Abraham;  and  make  eminent 
saints  out  of  the  very  vilest  sinners.  O  Father  of 
mercies,  pity  poor  sinners  that  have  not  hearts  to 
pity  themselves  :  open  their  eyes  to  see  the  error 
of  their  ways,  and  the  danger  of  their  case:  soften 
their  hearts  into  a  penitent  concernment  for  their 
sins;  and  awaken  them  into  a  timely  care  of  their 
souls.  O  let  thy  Spirit  convince  them  how  bad 
it  is  with  them;  and  set  their  sins  in  order  be- 


A  Prayer  for  the  Unconverted.  283 

fore  them ;  that  they  may  know  their  transgres- 
sions, and  what  is  the  wages  of  sin,  and  the  dread- 
ful portion  of  all  ungodly  men;  and  know  where 
their  help  lies,  and  what  they  must  do  to  be 
saved  :  and  the  Lord  make  them  faithful  to  their 
convictions;  that  they  may  not  hold  the  truth  in 
unrighteousness;  but  make  haste  to  do  what  they  ' 
are  convinced  is  necessary  to  be  done  for  their 
poor  sinking  souls,  beforejt  be  too  late. 

O  good  God,  give  repentance  to  the  acknow- 
ledgment of  the  truth,  unto  such  as  have  opposed 
themselves,  that  they  may  be  recovered  out  of 
the  snare  of  the  devil,  who  have  been  taken 
captive  by  him  at  his  will;  that  thy  power  and 
inercy  may  be  glorified  in  their  conversion  and 
salvation:  and  not  thy  truth  and  justice  in  their 
ruin  and  destruction. 

That  they  are  so  far  from  the  kingdom  of  God, 
that  they  contradict  and  blaspheme  thy  truth, 
and  stumble  at  thy  word,  and  set  it  at  naught ;  re- 
sisting the  means  of  their  salvation,  and  hating 
and  abusing  the  followers  of  Jesus;  turning  again 
to  rend  thy  servants :  O  Lord,  our  heavenly  Fa- 
ther, forgive  them,  for  they  know  not  what  they 
do.  And  stop  and  turn  them  as  thou  didst  the 
persecuting  Saul,  when  he  was  mad  against  the 
saints,  and  verily  thought  with  himself  that  he 
ought  to  do  many  things  contrary  to  the  name  of 
Jesus.  Put  them  in  fear,  O  Lord,  that  they  may 
know  themselves  to  be  but  chaff  and  stub- 
ble before  thee,  our  God,  who  art  to  the  wicked 
a  consuming  fire.  And  bring  down  their  high 
looks,  subdue  their  stiff  necks,  and  break  their 
hardened  hearts,  to  make  them  to  submit  unto 
thee,  that  they  may  not  be  slain  before  thee. 

And  such  as  think  they  are  rich  and  increased 


284  A  Prayer  for  the  Unconverted. 

with  goods,  and  have  need  of  nothing;  and  know 
not  that  they  are  wretched,  and  miserable,  and 
poor,  and  blind,  and  naked;  O  Lord,  discover 
them  to  themselves,  and  show  them  the  true  state 
of  their  souls;  that  they  may  be  sorrowfully  con- 
cerned for  their  sins,  and  apprehend  the  peril 
they  are  in,  and  timely  seek  out  for  help,  and 
flee  from  the  wrath  to  come. 

Such  as  are  ignorant  and  out  of  the  way,  and, 
to  do  their  souls  good,  have  no  knowledge,  LorU, 
have  compassion  on  them;  and  call  them  out  of 
darkness,  into  thy  marvellous  light,  that  they  may 
not  perish  for  lack  of  knowledge.  O  let  them  be 
taught  of  God  to  know  thee  and  themselves,  and 
the  things  belonging  to  their  peace,  before  they 
be  hid  from  their  eyes.  O  thou  that  commandest 
the  light  to  shine  out  of  darkness,  be  pleased  to 
shine  into  their  hearts;  show  them  thy  ways,  and 
lead  them  in  thy  truth,  that  they  may  not  be  un- 
wise, but  understand  what  the  will  of  the  Lord  is. 

Such  as  are  in  .pernicious  errors,  and  damn- 
able heresies,  departed  from  the  faith  once  deli- 
vered to  the  saints ;  having  their  minds  corrupted 
from  the  simplicity  that  is  in  Christ;  perverting 
the  truth,  as  it  is  in  Jesus ;  and  not  only  swerving 
from  the  pure  doctrine  of  the  gospel  themselves, 
but  also  lying  in  wait  to  seduce  and  deceive 
others.  O  Father  of  lights,  take  away  the  evil 
which  is  upon  their  hearts,  that  they  may  see 
wherein  they  have  erred,  and  come  to  receive 
the  truth  in  the  love  of  it,  and  earnestly  contend 
for  the  faith,  which  they  once  destroyed. 

The  prosperous  worldings  and  secure  sinners, 
settled  upon  their  lees,  that  are  at  ease  in  their 
possessions,  and  admire  and  doat  upon  the  world- 
ly good,  as  if  it  were  the  chief  and  only  good;  ap- 


Jl  Prayer  for  the  Unconverted.  285 

themselves  in  their  portion  that  they 
iave  in  this  life,  as  if  they  had  no  need  of  God, 
nor  to  take  care  for  any  other  heaven ;  O  dear 
Father,  show  them  how  base  is  their  choice,  so 
to  go  astray  from  the  Lord ;  and  how  rotten  the 
foundation,  on  which  at  present  they  stand.  O 
make  them  to  knowr  that  the  friendship  of  the 
world  is  enmity  with  God;  and  that  all  this  world 
can  never  either  satisfy  the  desire,  or  recompense 
for  the  loss  of  a  soul:  yea,  open  their  eyes,  O 
Lord,  to  see  how  the  fashion  of  this  world  pass- 
eth  away ;  arid  how  soon  all  that  wherein  they 
trust  and  delight  will  be  utterly  gone,  as  if  it  had 
never  been  !  and  what  multitudes  by  forsaking  of 
God  to  cleave  unto  mammon,  miscarry,  and  are 
lost  for  ever;  drowned  in  that  destruction  nnd 
perdition,  from  whence  there  is  no  redemption : 
that  they  may  be  checked  and  cooled  in  their 
pursuit  and  love  of  the  world,  and  flee  from  its 
snares,  for  the  life  of  their  souls  ;  and  so  leave  all 
for  Christ,  and  the  everlasting  glory  to  come ;  that 
that  they  may  not  be  condemned  with  the  world, 
but  saved  in  the  great  day  of  the  Lord. 

And  such  as  the  loose  and  profane,  and  scan- 
dalous in  their  lives,  making  bold  to  rebel  against 
Heaven,  and  committing  all  uncleanness  with 
greediness ;  scoffing  at  the  followers  of  Jesus, 
and  deriding  all  that  is  serious  and  holy,  and 
needful  to  the  saving  of  the  soul;  refusing  to  be 
ashamed,  and  hating  to  be  reformed;  how  dan- 
gerous and  desperate  soever  seems  their  case; 
yet,  Lord,  it  is  not  past  thy  help  and  cure,  who 
callest  those  things  that  are  not,  as  if  they  were; 
who  canst  change  the  leopard's  spots,  and  the 
Ethiopian's  skin :  yea,  and  bring  not  only  some- 
thing out  of  nothing,  but  the  greatest  good  even 


286  For  all  that  desire  our  Prayers. 

out  of  the  worst  evil.  O  !  where  sin  has  abound- 
ed, may  thy  grace  much  more  abound.  Thou, 
Lord  God  Almighty,  do  the  great  work  of  thy 
grace,  to  heal  such  wounds  and  bruises,  and  pu 
trifying  sores;  and  to  recover  the  ruinous  sinners 
so  far  gone,  under  such  deadly  distempers,  that 
the  prodigals  may  come  to  themselves,  and  arise, 
and  go  to  their  Father;  that  such  as  were  dead 
may  be  alive  again,  and  such  as  were  lost  may  be 
found;  that  they  may  yet  turn  from  their  evil 
ways  and  come  to  see  the  beauties  of  holiness, 
and  delight  to  do  thy  blessed  will,  O  God,  and 
obtain  an  inheritance  among  them  that  are  sanc- 
tified, through  faith  in  Jesus  Christ, 


Jl  Prayer  for  all  that  desire  our  Prayers 

OLORD,  God  of  Ihe  spirits  of  all  flesh  !  thy 
word  requires  us  to  pray  for  others,  as  well 
as  for  ourselves  ;  and  to  call  upon  thee  as  our 
common  Father  in  Jesus  Christ.  And  though  I 
am  unworthy  to  speak  to  thy  heavenly  Majesty, 
O  most  High,  either  for  myself,  or  others  ;  yet,  in 
the  sense  of  thy  mercy,  and  the  obligation  of  my 
duty  and  charity,  I  take  upon  me  to  become  an 
humble  petitioner  to  thee,  my  Lord,  in  behalf  of 
all  such  as  desire  to  be  partakers  of  my  prayers. 
O  that  they  may  share  in  thy  rich  mercies,  accord- 
ing to  their  several  wants  and  necessities.  They 
are  known  to  thee  byname;  O  let  them  be  known 
of  thee  in  the  number  of  thy  children.  Thou 
knowest  what  they  most  need,  and  chiefly  desire; 
O  thou  gracious  Giver  of  good,  answer  them  in 
the  desires  of  their  hearts,  as  far  as  they  desire 
the  things  that  are  meet  and  good  ;  and  where 
they  desire  what  is  unfitting  and  hurtful,  convince 
them  of  their  error,  that  they  may  not  persist  in 


For  the  Blessing  of  our  intended  Marriage.  287 

it.  And  where  they  see  not  the  things  of  their 
peace,  or  are  cold  to  that  which  is  most  for  their 
good,  O  Lord,  show  them  the  saving  way,  and 
grant  them  a  great  love  for  it,  and  true  zeal  to 
follow  it.  Bless  them,  gracious  Father,  with  so 
much  of  the  world's  good,  as  thou  knowest  to  be 
good  for  them;  but  especially  remember  them 
with  the  favour  which  thou  bearest  to  thy  people. 
Instruct  them,  Lord,  in  the  knowledge  of  thy  will, 
and  what  they  must  do  to  be  saved;  and  make 
them  faithful  to  practise  according  to  the  light 
which  thou  art  pleased  to  give  them;  yea,  incline 
their  hearts  to  take  pleasure  in  the  performance 
of  their  duty.  Bless  them,  O  God  of  all  grace, 
with  that  grace  and  favour  of  thine,  in  which  is 
life,  and  with  all  spiritual  blessings  in  heavenly 
things  in  Christ  Jesus. 

A  Prayer  for  the  Blessing  of  our  intended  Marriage. 

OMY  God,  thy  bountiful  favours  have  ex- 
ceeded all  my  expectations,  as  well  as  my 
deservings:  and  though  I  have  wretchedly  abus- 
ed thy  kindness  and  love,  yet  still  thou  waitest  to 
be  gracious;  and  art  not  weary  to  show  mercy. 
Now  thy  good  providence,  Lord,  hast  set  the  frui- 
tion before  me,  which  looks  hopeful  upon  me,  an<l 
for  good  to  me.  If  thou  knowest  it  to  be  so  indeed, 
O  Lord  of  love,  promote  and  bring  it  to  pass.  And, 
that  thou  mayest  bless  and  prosper  my  designs, 
grant  that  I  may  proceed  in  thy  fear  and  favour; 
so  as  shall  be  for  the  glory  of  thy  name,  and  the 
eternal  welfare  of  myself,  and  thy  servant,  whom 
my  thoughts  and  affections  are  set  upon.  O  give 
me  such  a  partner  of  my  fortunes  as  may  be  a 
blessing  to  me,  for  this  life  and  a  better.  And 
make  us  truly  beneficial  and  comfortable  to  one 


288  The  Husbands  Prayer 

another  in  all  the  best  respects  pertaining  to  our 
chiefest  good.  Grant,  Lord,  that  we  may  be 
helps  meet  for  each  other,  in  reference  to  both 
worlds;  and  that  our  love  may  be  sincere  without 
guile  ;  pure  without  lust;  and  lasting  without  de- 
cay. O  thou  that  fashionest  all  hearts,  unite  our 
affections  upon  such  just  and  worthy  accounts,  as 
may  make  them  firm  and  durable  to  the  end. 
Wed  us  both  to  thy  blessed  self,  as  well  as  to  one 
another,  that  our  marriage  may  be  in  the  Lord; 
and  not  separate  us  from,  but  bring  us  nearer  to 
our  God.  O  grant  us  new  supplies  of  thy  grace 
for  this  new  estate  of  our  lives,  that  we  may  fill 
up  the  relation  into  which  we  are  entering  with 
all  suitable  duty;  that  we  may  not  only  be  faith- 
ful, in  still  keeping  the  marriage  bed  undefiled, 
but  be  mutual  helps  and  comforts,  both  in  the 
temporal  and  spiritual  concerns;  and  even  con- 
spire together,  to  pleasure,  and  honour,  arid 
benefit  one  another;  and,  above  all,  to  glorify  and 
praise  thee  our  God,  through  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

The  Husband's  Prayer. 

ACCEPT  my  humble  thanks  to  thee,  Lord  my 
God,  who  has  provided  a  help-meet  for  me, 
that  is  thy  gift;  and  such  an  one  as  thy  good  pro- 
vidence hast  appointed  to  be  my  partner  in  the 
nearest  relation.  O  teach  and  enable  me,  in  all 
things,  to  carry  myself  towards  her  as  behoves 
and  becomes  me  in  this  station :  to  love  and  che- 
rish her  as  my  own  flesh;  and  not  to  despise  her, 
not  to  be  bitter  against  her;  but  to  bear  with  her 
infirmities,  and  forbear  her  in  love,  and  all  gen- 
tleness. Nor  let  me  insult  over  her  as  an  infe- 
rior; but  mildly  use  my  authority,  in  treating  her 
as  my  dear  yoke-fellow  and  companion.  Not 


The  Wife's  Prayer.  289 

rigid  in  opposing  of  her ;  but  comply  with  her, 
and  condescending  to  her  in  all  her  reasonable 
desires  and  expectations.  O  make  me  meek  and 
patient  with  her;  faithful  and  kind  to  her;  re- 
spectful and  tender  of  her,  and  well  pleased  and 
satisfied  in  her:  that  she  may  find  the  refreshment 
and  benefit  of  my  fellowship,  and  not  bewail  but 
rejoice  in  her  choice;  to  forsake  all  other  for  my 
sake.  O  blessed  Lord,  espouse  my  dear  friend 
to  thyself,  in  loving  kindness  and  faithfulness,  and 
tender  mercies.  Bless  her  and  love  her,  and 
make  her  lovely  to  thyself,  and  to  all;  especially 
make  her  like  the  king's  daughter,  glorious  with- 
in, that  she  may  not  only  appear  well  here,  but  be 
most  blessed  for  ever;  and  grant,  O  Lord  our 
God,  that  we  may  be  lovers  of  one  another's  souls 
and  promoters  of  each  other's  salvation;  so  that 
after  a  short  conversation  here,  we  may  meet 
again  with  rejoicing  there,  where  we  shall  never 
part,  even  in  that  fulness  of  joy  which  is  in  thy 
presence;  where,  though  there  be  no  marrying, 
nor  giving  in  marriage,  yet  is  there  greater  festi- 
vity and  gladness,  than  in  any  day  of  espousals ; 
and  all  heavenly  sweets,  and  the  highest  plea- 
sures for  evermore.  Amen. 


The  Wife's  Prayer. 

OMY  God,  thou  hast  called  me  to  this  state 
of  life;  and  it  is  the  disposal  of  thy  provi- 
dence, that  I  should  be  joined  in  wedlock  with 
thy  servant.     I  bless  thee,  Lord,  that  thou  hast 
dealt  well  with  me,  and  provided  graciously  for 
me.     O  continue  thy  goodness  to  me,  in  giving 
me  knowledge  and  grace  to  demean  myself  aright 
in  this  relation,  that  I  may  honour  and  obey  the 
Lord  in  reverencing  and  obeying  my  husband; 
2  B 


290  The  Wifes  Prayer. 

submitting  to  him  in  all  things  not  forbidden  by 
thee ;  speaking  of  him,  and  to  him,  with  such 
words,  to  signify  the  high  esteem  and  dear  love 
that  I  have  for  him;  and  so  comporting  myself, 
as  to  give  him  content,  and  increase  his  delight; 
that  he  may  not  only  be  satisfied  with  me,  but 
take  pleasure  in  me:  and  in  any  occasions  of  of- 
fence, with  silence,  or  soft  obliging  words,  let  me 
quench  the  flames;  so  preserving  peace.  O  give 
me  the  ornament  of  a  meek  and  quiet  spirit ;  such 
as  may  not  only  make  me  sweet  and  amiable  at 
present,  but  also  prevent  all  shameful  and  mis- 
chievous effects.  O  make  me  humble  and  modest, 
discreet  and  considerate,  careful  and  diligent, 
faithful  and  constant,  mild  and  patient;  remem- 
bering not  only  the  duties  and  comforts,  but  also 
the  temptations  and  crosses  of  the  married  con- 
dition; and  taking  the  worse  with  the  better,  as 
a  part  of  my  portion ;  still  showing  myself  a  fol- 
lower of  wise  and  pious  matrons  in  all  things  that 
are  of  good  report,  however  I  am  tried  with  pros- 
perity or  adversity.  Bless  my  dear  partner,  O 
Lord,  with  the  best  of  thy  blessings  ;  and  love 
him,  and  keep  him  in  thy  continual  care,  till  thou 
bring  him  to  thy  heavenly  kingdom.  O  bind  us 
both  in  faithfulness  unto  thee,  as  well  as  to  one 
another :  arid  as  we  are  one  flesh,  so  make  us  of 
one  heart,  and  of  one  soul,  that  nothing  but  death 
may  ever  make  a  separation  between  us.  And 
let  us  not  hold  together  only  upon  the  worldly 
account,  but  also,  and  especially  upon  the'  reli- 
gious and  godly;  to  admire,  and  love,  and  serve, 
and  glorify,  and  please  thee  our  God,  through 
Jesus  Christ.  Jlmen. 


A  Thanksgiving  after  a  safe  Delivery.     291 

A  Prayer  for  a  Woman  in   Travail. 

O  ALMIGHTY  Lord  God,  who  bringest  to 
the  birth,  and  givest  strength  to  bring  forth; 
show  favour,  we  beseech  thee,  to  thy  servant  in 
the  time  of  her  need  and  distress;  and  be  not  far 
from  her  when  trouble  is  nigh  to  her,  and  lies 
sore  and  heavy  upon  her :  but  let  her  experience 
thy  help  at  hand,  according  to  the  necessity  of 
her  case.  O  mitigate  the  pangs,  and  make  them 
tolerable  to  her;  and  support  and  relieve  her  un- 
der the  pain  and  pressure  that  are  so  grievous  to 
be  born  by  her.  And  grant  her,  Lord,  a  timely, 
safe,  and  happy  deliverance  of  the  offspring 
wherewith  she  travails,  that  she  may  see  the 
fruits  of  her  womb  with  such  comfort  and  joy, 
as  may  make  her  forget  the  past  anguish  and  sor- 
row; and  with  a  truly  thankful  heart  give  thee  the 
glory  of  such  thy  mercy,  who  dost  things  worthy  of 
God,  and  makest  thy  servants  a  way  to  escape 
out  of  the  dangers  that  threaten  to  destroy  them. 
Or  shouldst  thou  turn  things  contrary  to  these 
our  desires  which  we  humbly  present  before  thee; 
shouldst  thou  refuse  to  hear  us  begging  for  the  life 
of  thy  handmaid,  and  make  this  unexpected  birth 
prove  the  cause  of  her  death;  yet  hear  us,  O 
Lord,  we  earnestly  pray  thee,  for  her  soul,  that 
it  may  be  safe  in  thy  blessed  hands ;  that  she  may 
be  prepared  for  a  better  life ;  and  find  the  best 
deliverance  of  all  from  sin  and  misery,  into  the 
perfection  of  holiness,  and  the  fulness  of  joy; 
there  to  live  in  thy  love,  and  to  sing  thy  praise 
for  evermore.  Amen. 

Jl   Thanksgiving    after   a  safe    Delivery. 
BLESSED  for  ever  be  thy  name,  O  Lord,  our 
gracious  God,  who  rememberest  us  in  our 


292  For  our  Children. 

low  estate,  and  dost  not  abhor  the  affliction  of 
the  afflicted ;  but  hearest  thy  servants  crying  to 
thee  in  their  distress,  and  sendest  relief  and  help 
in  time  of  need.  O  that  we  may  praise  thee,  Lord, 
as  we  ought,  for  such  thy  goodness  and  wonder- 
ful works  to  the  children  of  men  !  Thou  bringest 
down,  and  raisest  up;  thou  givest  trouble  and 
sendest  comfort;  throwest  down  under  fears  and 
griefs,  and  again  revivest  our  hopes  and  joys. 
Thou,  O  God,  art  good  in  all,  and  worthy  to  be 
admired  and  praised  in  every  dispensation  of  thy 
providence;  but  chiefly  are  we  affected  with  thy 
seasonable  aids  of  our  misery,  when  thou  givest 
us  beauty  for  ashes,  the  oil  of  gladness  for  mourn- 
ing, and  the  garments  of  praise  for  the  spirit  of 
heaviness ;  so  thou  hast  now,  blessed  be  thy  name ! 
refreshed  thy  afflicted  handmaid,  and  rejoiced 
the  souls  of  thy  servants.  And  here  we  offer  up 
unto  thee,  O  gracious  Lord,  all  our  devout  ac- 
knowledgments of  thy  loving  kindness;  and  the 
sacrifice  of  our  unfeigned  thanks  and  praise  for 
this  sweet  reviving  mercy,  which  is  as  life  from 
the  dead.  O  that  thy  handmaid,  arid  all  of  us, 
may  be  duly  sensible  of  such  favour  from  the 
Lord;  and  for  all  the  great  goodness  and  these 
continual  obligations  from  above,  may  we  give 
thee  all  the  love  of  our  hearts,  and  the  service  of 
our  lives,  and  the  glory  due  to  thy  blessed  name, 
now  and  for  evermore.  Jlmen. 


A  Prayer  for  our  Children. 

THE  children,  O  Lord  my  God,  which  thou 
hast    given  me,  I  return,  and    surrender 
them  up  to  thee.     O  that  they  may  know  thee, 
and  be  owned  by  thee,  every  one  from  the  great- 
est to  the  least.     Pour  out  thy  spirit  upon  my 


For  our  Children.  293 

seed,  and  thy  blessing  upon  my  offspring :  make 
them,  Lord,  thy  children  by  adoption  and  spi- 
ritual regeneration.  O  take  possession  of  their 
hearts,  and  season  their  tender  years  with  thy 
heavenly  grace :  and  teach  those  who  have  the 
teaching  of  them,  that  they  may  be  brought  up 
in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord,  and 
trained  up  in  the  way  that  they  should  go.  I 
have  helped  to  bring  them  into  the  world,  chil- 
dren of  wrath:  O  thatthou  wouldst  make  me  in- 
strumental to  set  them  up  in  thy  church  the  chil- 
dren of  grace.  Lord  have  mercy  upon  them, 
and  speak  life  to  their  souls,  and  whatsoever  else 
they  want:  O  let  them  have  thy  grace  and  the 
portion  of  thy  children.  My  God !  be  thou  a  gra- 
cious Father  to  them,  and  a  merciful  Provider 
for  them  in  all  estates,  and  all  affairs  and  events 
of  their  lives.  Dispose  of  them,  and  whatever 
concerns  them,  to  thy  glory  and  to  the  promoting 
of  their  everlasting  salvation. 

Shouldst  thou  take  them  from  hence  before  me, 
O  fit  them  for  thee ;  and  make  me  willing  to  re- 
sign them  to  thee;  or  if  thou  take  me  from  them, 
O  my  Lord,  take  them  up,  and  be  an  infinitely 
better  Father  to  them  when  I  am  gone.  O  keep 
them  from  the  evil  of  this  world;  and  conduct 
and  bring  them  safe  through  it  to  a  better ;  take 
thou  care  even  of  their  temporal  concerns,  and 
choose  their  inheritance  for  them,  that  they  may 
find  it  to  be  convenient  here,  and  an  easy  pas- 
sage through  the  present  life ;  but  especially,  my 
God,  take  care  of  their  souls,  and  give  them  the 
blessed  treasure  in  heaven,  that  when  they  shall 
be  deprived  of  all  here,  they  may  be  taken  into 
thy  glorious  kingdom  above  :  to  live  with  thee,  and 
all  the  heavenly  host,  world  without  end.  Amen. 


o    "R  o 


291  The  Widow's  Prayer. 

Jl  Prayer  for  our  Parents. 

OLORD  God,  my  heavenly  Father,  I  here 
prostrate  myself  before  thee,  to  beg  thy 
blessing,  grace  and  mercy,  upon  my  earthly  pa- 
rents. Cast  them  not  away  in  the  time  of  their 
old  age;  forsake  them  not  when  their  strength 
fails  them;  but  have  compassion,  Lord,  on  their 
infirmities,  and  help  them  in  all  their  weakness. 
O  remember  not  against  them  any  of  their  former 
iniquities;  but  according  to  thy  mercy  remember 
them  for  thy  goodness'  sake  in  Jesus  Christ.  O 
that  the  true  wisdom  may  be  with  them,  and 
abundance  of  thy  grace  upon  them,  that  their  hoa- 
ry heads  may  be  found  in  the  way  of  righteous- 
ness, and  their  souls  be  ever  precious  in  thy  sight. 

0  let  goodness  and  mercy  follow  them  all  the 
days  of  their  life  :  let  their  last  days  be  their  best 
days;  and  the  longer  they  live  here  in  the  world, 
make  them  still  the  readier  to  die,  and  the  fitter 
to  live  with  thy  blessed  self,  in  the  glorious  life 
eternal.     O  be  thou  their  guide  until  death;  in 
death  their  support  and  comfort ;  and  when  heart 
and  flesh,  and  all  here  shall  fail  them,  O  do  thou 
never  fail  them,  but  be  the  strength  of  their  hearts, 
and  their  portion  for  evermore.     Amen. 

The  Widow's  Prayer. 

OEVER  living  and  all  disposing  God!  thou 
hast  taken  from  me  the  friend  of  my  bosom, 
that  was  even  as  my  own  soul;  and  by  the  want, 
now  taught  me  the  worth  of  that  blessing  which 

1  was  not  so  thankful  for,  nor  so  careful  as  I  ought, 
to  use  and  improve,  in  the  enjoyment,  to  thy  glory. 
I  submit  to  thy  overruling  hand,  which  is  always 
just,  though  sometimes  heavy,  as  now  I  feel  it  upon 


The  Widow's  Prayer.  295 

me.  O  deliver  me,  Lord,  from  the  sins  which 
are  the  cause  of  thy  displeasure  ;  and  forgive  me 
all  wherein  ever  1  have  failed  towards  thee,  or  to- 
wards my  dear  partner.  He  was  thy  gift,  and  it 
was  thy  goodness  that  I  enjoyed,  and  thy  help  and 
comfort  that  I  found  in  him:  who  canst  supply  to 
me,  by  thyself,  what  I  received  from  thee  by  his 
hands;  for  thou  art  still  the  same  eternal  Foun- 
tain of  goodness,  whatever  means  of  conveyance 
thou  cuttest  off  from  us.  O  pity  me,  Lord,  under 
the  breach  which  thou  hast  been  pleased  to  make 
upon  me,  and  support  me  in  the  dejection  of  my 
heart,  and  guide  and  comfort  me  in  all  the  per- 
plexity of  my  thoughts.  Withdraw  not  thou  thy- 
self from  me,  O  my  God,  now  trouble  is  upon  me; 
but  make  even  the  bitter  dispensation  a  happy 
occasion  to  bring  me  nearer  to  thyself,  by  remov- 
ing that  which  lay  betwixt  thee  and  my  heart; 
and  to  raise- this  heart  of  mine  from  the  present 
world  to  a  better,  where  I  hope  my  dear  friend  is 
now  with  the  Lord ;  that  as  a  widow  indeed,  and 
desolate,  and  deprived  of  former  helps,  I  may 
trust  in  God,  and  continue  in  supplications  and 
prayers  night  and  day.  O  thou  that  hast  a 
peculiar  care,  and  tender  regard  for  the  widows, 
be  pleased  to  espouse  my  concerns,  and  direct 
my  path,  and  show  me  what  I  have  to  do,  and  fit 
me  for,  and  assist  me  in  every  duty  now  incum- 
bent upon  me.  O  let  my  Maker  be  my  husband 
to  teach  me,  and  help  to  defend  and  comfort  me; 
to  deal  graciously  with  me,  and  to  be  all  in  all  to 
me;  and  bring  me  safe,  O  my  God,  through  this 
vale  of  misery,  to  the  blessed  kingdom  of  thy 
glory,  for  the  sake  of  thy  beloved  »Son,  my  only 
Saviour,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


296  The  Orphan's  Prayer. 

The  Orphan's  Prayer. 

OLORD  my  God,  thou  art  he  that  took  me 
out  of  my  mothers  womb ;  arid  art  pleased 
to  style  thyself  in  a  peculiar  manner,  the  Father 
of  the  fatherless :  now  am  I  left  unto  thee,  my 
eyes  are  upon  thee,  and  I  desire  to  pour  out  my 
soul  before  thee,  intreating  thy  gracious  favour 
to  have  compassion  on  me,  and  leave  me  not  de- 
solate, exposed  to  the  wants  and  mischiefs,  and 
dangers  of  this  wicked  and  miserable  world:  but 
when  my  father  arid  mother  have  forsaken  me,  O 
Lord,  do  thou  take  me  up,  and  be  a  Father,  and 
the  best  of  Fathers  to  me,  and  still  a  gracious  pro- 
vider for  me.  Guide  me,  O  my  heavenly  Father, 
and  my  friends  also,  that  are  concerned  in  the 
disposing  of  me  and  my  affairs.  O  be  thou  pleas- 
ed to  choose  my  inheritance  for  me;  and  order 
me,  and  all  that  concerns  me  to  thy  glory,  and  to 
the  promoting  of  my  present  welfare,  and  my  ever- 
lasting happiness.  Direct  my  designs,  that  they 
may  be  agreeable  to  thy  blessed  will ;  and  bless 
and  prosper  my  undertakings  and  endeavours, 
that  they  may  succeed  according  to  my  desire, 
arid  so  as  to  give  me  occasion  for  thy  praise.  My 
Lord,  I  commit  myself  to  thee !  O  be  thou  my 
God  and  guide,  even  unto  death:  be  ever  watch- 
ful over  me  for  good,  and  preserve  and  keep  me, 
and  corjduct  and  lead  me  in  all  the  variety  of  es- 
tates and  affairs  of  this  life,  till  thou  hast  brought 
me  to  inherit  the  blessed  portion  of  thy  children, 
in  that  most  sweet  and  glorious  life,  which  shall 
never  fail.  Grant  this,  6  merciful  Father,  for  thy 
dear  Son's  sake,  my  only  Saviour,  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen. 


The  dgetfs  Prayer.  297 

The  jigetiTs  Prayer. 

OLORD  of  my  life,  thou  art  my  God  from 
the  womb,  my  hope  and  trust  from  my 
youth;  by  thee  I  was  brought  into  the  world,  and 
upon  thee  have  I  lived  all  my  days.  O  with 
what  patience  and  long  suffering  hast  thou  endur- 
ed me!  and  with  what  loving  kindness  and  tender 
mercies  still  prevented  and  followed  me:  how 
many  have  I  seen  snatched  out  of  this  life,  as  I  fear, 
miserably  unprovided  for  their  death;  whereas 
thou  prolongest  my  days,  and  together  with  more 
days,  still  addest  new  mercies  to  my  life:  O  that 
it  may  be  in  mercy  to  my  soul,  that  I  am  suffered 
to  live  so  long  in  the  world ;  that  as  my  life  is 
lengthened  out,  so  all  that  concerns  my  salvation 
may  be  filled  up,  that  I  may  redeem  the  time,  and 
improve  all  the  opportunities  and  means  of  grace 
which  thou  art  pleased  to  put  into  my  hands,  for 
the  best  profit  and  advantage  of  my  soul,  that  my 
age  may  be  the  good  old  age ;  arid  the  remaining* 
time  of  my  sojourning  here,  the  best  of  all  my 
time. 

Though  my  sight  is  dim  to  the  world,  let  my 
eyes  be  ever  towards  the  Lord,  and  open  to  see 
the  things  of  my  peace  :  though  my  ears  are  dull 
of  hearing,  let  my  heart  be  attentive  to  thy  calls, 
and  to  hear  thy  voice  while  it  is  called  to-day. 
Though  I  cannot,  as  formerly,  relish  the  pleasures 
of  meat  and  drink ;  yet  let  me  taste  the  goodness 
of  the  Lord,  arid  favour  the  things  of  the  Spirit  of 
God,  and  hunger  and  thirst  after  righteousness, 
and  those  pleasures  which  are  at  thy  right  hand 
for  evermore.  And  though  my  limbs  are  weak, 
and  my  strength  will  not  serve  me  to  travel  abroad 
as  I  have  done ;  yet  make  me  strong  in  the  Lord, 


298  The  dgetfs  Prayer. 

to  do  thy  work,  and  to  walk  in  thy  ways;  and  to 
perform  my  great  journey  home  to  my  house  eter- 
nal in  the  heavens:  and  seeing  there  is  no  man 
that  liveth,and  shall  not  see  death:  and  the  longer 
I  have  escaped  it,  the  nearer  I  am  now  to  it,  and 
shall  one  day  certainly  fall  by  it;  and  must  every 
day  reckon  upon  it,  and  know  not  but  my  soul 
this  night  may  be  required  of  me :  O  let  not  my 
length  of  days  tempt  me  to  forget  their  end ;  or 
to  put  my  last  day  far  from  me :  but  let  me  keep 
it  ever  in  my  prospect  as  drawing  nigh  to  me ; 
that  I  may  order  all  my  concerns,  not  only  like 
a  stranger  and  sojourner  with  thee,  as  all  my  fa- 
thers were;  but  as  a  dying  man,  and  ready  to 
drop  into  the  grave,  waiting  arid  watching,  and 
preparing  for  the  coming  of  my  Lord;  that  at  thy 
coming,  thou  mayest  find  me  so  doing. 

And  because  I  am  old  in  sins,  as  well  as  in 
years;  pulled  down  with  iniquity,  as  well  as  with 
age;  and  the  number  of  my  transgressions  exceeds 
not  only  my  years  and  days,  but  even  the  hours  of 
my  life,  and  the  hairs  of  my  head;  where  I  can- 
not, alas !  pretend  to  my  innocence !  O  my  gra- 
cious Lord,  give  me  true  repentance  !  and  that 
godly  sorrow  for  my  sins,  which  may  prevent  my 
going  down  in  a  worse  sorrow  to  my  grave. 
Thou  hast  saved  many  an  aged  sinner;  O  God, 
be  so  merciful  to  me  a  sinner.  Put  all  my  sins 
upon  the  account  of  thy  dear  Son ;  and  wash  me 
thoroughly  from  them,  in  the  fountain  of  his  pre- 
cious blood.  Especially,  O  merciful  Lord,  acquit 
and  discharge  me  from  the  sins  that  lie  heaviest 
upon  me;  and  that  make  the  thoughts  of  death 
and  judgment  most  frightful  to  me.  O  give  me, 
Lord,  some  tokens  for  good,  that  I  shall  find  such 
mercy  at  thy  hands,  that  I  may  depart  in  peace, 


The  ChiWs  Prayer.  299 

and  finish  my  course  with  joy,  and  in  the  end  of 
my  life  be  numbered  among  the  redeemed  and 
blessed  of  the  Lord,  through  the  tender  mercies 
of  my  God,  and  the  all-sufficient  merits  of  my 
only  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.  Jlmen. 

The  Child's    Prayer. 

OMY  good  God,  who  hast  made  me,  have 
mercy  upon  me,  and  teach  me  to  know 
thee,  and  incline  my  heart  to  love  thee,  and  ena- 
ble me  in  all  my  life  to  do  thy  will  as  I  ought  to  do. 
Thou  hast  formed  me  in  the  womb  for  thyself,  and 
in  the  church  I  have  been  devoted,  and  offered  up 
to  the  Lord,  as  thy  dear  child,  in  all  duty  to  wait 
upon  thee.  O  thou  blessed  Guide  of  my  youth! 

S've  me  thy  grace,  to  understand  and  seek  after 
od :  Yea,  to  seek  the  Lord  early,  and  to  remember 
my  Creator,  and  bear  the  yoke  in  the  days  of 
my  youth;  that  thou  mayest  not  be  unmindful 
of  me  in  the  time  of  my  age;  but  make  me  to  find 
a  never-failing  comfort  in  my  latter  days.  As  I 
grow  in  years  and  stature,  so  help  me,  Lord,  to 
grow  in  wisdom  and  grace,  and  in  favour  with  God 
and  men.  O  keep  me  from  the  evil  of  this  world, 
and  carry  me  safe  through  it  to  thy  heavenly  king- 
dom. Make  me  obedient  and  tractable  to  my  pa- 
rents and  teachers ;  and  lowly,  and  respectful,  and 
courteous  to  all:  and  bless  me,  and  help  me,  Lord, 
in  my  learning  of  all  such  things  as  shall  stand 
me  in  stead,  and  do  me  good.  O  my  heavenly 
Father!  take  care  of  me,  and  provide  for  me, 
and  so  dispose  of  me  in  the  world,  that  I  may  be 
useful,  and  serviceable  in  my  generation,  and  a 
blessing  to  the  place  where  thy  providence  shall 
settle  my  abode.  Preserve  me,  O  my  Lord,  from 
the  infection  of  bad  examples,  that  I  may  not  be 


300  For  the  Rich  and  Great. 

led  away,  and  enticed  to  follow  the  ungodly  des- 
pisers  of  thy  laws  and  religion,  but  make  me  a 
lover  and  follower  of  such  as  are  good  and  godly, 
and  a  pattern  of  all  that  is  commendable  for 
others' imitation.  O  God,thou  knowest  my  foolish- 
ness, and  sec  st  how  weak  I  am;  O  look  not  upon 
my  follies,  nor  remember  the  sins  of  my  youth; 
but  have  pity  on  my  infirmities,  and  pass  by  my 
failings.  And  thou,  that  out  of  the  mouths  of 
babes  and  sucklings  hast  ordained  strength,  O 
magnify  thy  power  in  my  weakness,  arid  make  me 
a  profitable  member  of  society,  and  the  instrument 
of  thy  glory.  Leave  me  not,  O  Lord,  to  myself, 
in  the  hands  of  my  own  counsel ;  but  let  me  be 
taught  of  God  how  to  behave  myself,  and  what  to 
do:  and  take  thou  the  gracious  charge  and  guid- 
ance and  government  of  me  ;  and  keep  my  heart 
still  in  thy  fear  and  love;  and  direct  all  my  ways 
to  please  thee,  my  God,  through  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen. 

A  Prayer  to  be  used  by  the  Rich  and  Great. 

OLORD,  the  gracious  Giver  of  all  our  good 
things!  thou  hast  opened  thy  hand  to  me  in 
a  bountiful  manner,  and  givest  me  all  things  plen- 
teously  to  enjoy  :  so  that  I  am  full  and  abound  in 
the  store  wherein  many  of  my  neighbours  are  in- 
digent and  wanting:  O  that  this  plenty,  which  I 
have  for  my  body,  may  be  in  mercy  and  love  to 
my  soul !  And  that  I  may  not  be  put  off  with  my 
portion  in  this  life,  nor  rest  in  the  gifts,  forgetting 
and  slighting  the  blessed  Giver!  for  better!  never 
had  the  world's  good,  if  I  am  never  thfe  better 
for  it.  And  the  more  I  have,  the  sadder  account 
I  shall  make,  if  1  do  not  good  to  myself  and 
others  with  it.  The  prosperity  of  fools  destroys 


For  the  Rich  and  Great.  301 

them.  O  good  God  !  grant  that  this  may  not  be 
my  case,  that  I  may  not  so  abuse  my  prosperous 
circumstances  to  rebel  against  thee,  my  Lord, 
with  thy  own  bounty;  and  carry  worst  towards 
thee,  when  thou  dealest  best  with  me.  I  am  thy 
steward,  O  Lord  ;  grant,  I  beseech  thee,  that  I  may 
be  found  faithful  in  what  is  committed  to  my  trust ; 
that  I  may  honour  thee  with  my  substance,  and 
serve  the  ends  of  thy  holy  religion  in  my  prosper- 
ous condition.  O  that  with  the  fulness  put  into 
my  hands,  leanness  may  not  be  sent  into  my  soul ! 
That  I  may  not  wax  proud  and  wanton,  and  care- 
less of  seeking  after  a  better  world ;  when  I  am 
so  well  provided  in  this !  O  let  not  my  riches 
choke  thy  grace,  nor  dull  my  zeal  in  thy  service. 
— But  the  more  thou  hast  done  for  me,  my  God, 
make  me  the  more  careful  to  approve  the  thank- 
fulness of  my  heart  to  thee;  and  the  more  con- 
cerned to  please  thee,  and  the  more  fearful  to 
offend  thee.  Seeing  thou  hast  pronounced  it  so 
hard  for  the  rich  to  enter  into  thy  kingdom,  O 
keep  me  in  continual  vigilance  to  escape  the 
temptations  and  dangers  to  which  I  am  exposed 
in  this  condition.  And  teach  me,  good  Lord! 
how  to  abound,  and  to  use  this  world  without 
abusing  it.  That  the  bodily  provisions  may  not, 
through  my  folly,  become  snares  and  hinderances 
to  my  soul;  but  by  thy  mercy  may  be  helps  and 
encouragements  to  my  duty. 

O  let  me  not  trust  in  uncertain  riches,  nor 
value  myself  upon  what  I  have  of  the  world,  but 
be  covetous  after  the  true  treasure  of  thy  heaven- 
ly grace  and  love;  and  count  all  things  but  loss 
and  djng,  that  I  may  win  Christ,  and  be  rich  in 
good  works,  and  abound  in  the  fruits  of  righte- 
ousness. As  thou  fillest  me  with  thy  good  things, 


302  For  the  Poor  and  Low. 

so  fill  my  heart  with  thy  love  and  grace,  to  use 
every  gift  aright  to  thy  glory,  who  hast  made  me 
so  much  to  differ  from  multitudes  of  poor  crea- 
tures here  in  the  world.  O  let  me  not  despise  any 
above  whom  thy  distinguished  kindness  has  raised 
me;  but  give  me  a  heart  to  condescend  to  them  of 
low  estate :  and  amidst  all  my  plenty  to  be  clothed 
with  humility  5  and  forward  to  all  the  offices  of 
charity;  ready  to  communicate,  willing  to  distri- 
bute, laying  up  in  store  the  good  foundation 
against  the  time  to  come,  that  I  mav  lay  hold  upon 
eternal  life;  and  so  making  me  friends  of  the  un- 
righteous mammon,  that  when  I  fail  they  may  re- 
ceive me  into  everlasting  habitations.  Whatso- 
ever I  have  in  the  world,  O  that  I  may  have  it, 
Lord,  with  thy  leave  and  love,  sanctified  to  me 
by  the  word  of  God  and  prayer;  arid  by  a  right 
use  and  conscientious  improvement  of  it  to  the 
honour  of  thy  name,  from  whom  every  good  and 
perfect  gift  does  descend.  O  let  me  never  gain 
the  world  at  the  hazard  and  loss  of  my  soul;  but 
rather  than  so,  let  me  be  striptof  all  which  I  have 
in  this  life,  that  I  may  inherit  the  heavenly  trea* 
sure  and  life  eternal,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  to  be  used  by  such  as  are  Poor  and  Low  in 
the  World. 

OLORD,  the  great  disposer  of  all  our  estates 
and  concerns!  thy  providence  appoints 
every  one  their  several  stations;  and  it  is  thy 
will  that  there  should  be  poor  and  low,  as  well 
as  rich  and  high,  in  the  world.  One  thing  is 
needful;  and  it  is  not  what  we  have  of  the  world, 
but  what  we  are  towards  God,  that  will  do  us 
good,  and  make  us  happy.  If  thou  shower  not 


For  the  Poor  and  Low.  303 

dowrt  plenty  upon  me,  yet,  Lord,  give  me  what  is 
needful  and  convenient  for  me.  And  however 
thou  dealest  by  me  for  the  things  of  this  life,  O 
deny  me  not  the  riches  of  thy  grace,  and  the  sav- 
ing good  of  thy  chosen,  which  is  better  than  thou- 
sands of  gold  and  silver.  Teach  me,  my  God,  to 
suffer  need,  without  repining  at  my  lot,  or  co- 
veting what  1  have  not,  nor  envying  those  that 
have  it.  O  make  me  contented  with  my  portion, 
and  not  aggrieved  to  be  obscure  and  mean  in  the 
world ;  so  that  I  may  be  known  to  heaven,  and 
accepted  in  the  sight  of  thee,  my  God,  through 
Jesus  Christ  Let  me  never  stretch  out  my  hand 
to  iniquity,  nor  seek  to  help  myself,  by  any  dis- 
honest ways  of  getting;  but  choose  rather  to  be 
poor  than  wicked;  and  to  want  my  daily  bread, 
rather  than  thy  heavenly  grace :  casting  all  my 
care  upon  thee,  and  trusting  to  thy  Fatherly  care, 
to  provide  for  me.  Let  me  labour,  working  with 
my  hands,  the  thing  which  is  good,  in  all  that  I 
can,  to  minister  to  my  necessities:  and  may  thy 
blessings  succeed  and  prosper  all  my  honest  de- 
signs, and  poor  endeavours. 

And  the  less  I  have  of  this  world,  O  let  me  be 
in  greater  care  to  lay  out  and  labour  for  an  infi- 
nitely better !  that  I,  who  have  no  inheritance 
upon  earth,  may  be  made  meet  to  be  a  partakei 
of  the  inheritance  of  thy  saints  in  light;  that  1 
may  not  lose  both  worlds,  or  pass  from  my  small 
things  here,  to  be  out  of  all  for  ever;  but  may 
have  my  treasure  in  heaven,  and  thy  blessed  self, 
O  Lord,  to  be  my  portion  for  ever;  being  found 
among  those  poor  of  this  world,  whom  thou  hast 
chosen,  that  are  rich  in  faith,  and  heirs  of  the  king- 
dom, which  thou  hast  promised  to  them  that  love 
thee. 


304  For  the  Master  of  a  Family. 

And  blessed  be  thy  name,  O  righteous  God! 
that  with  thee  there  is  no  respect  of  persons ; 
but  the  poor  are  as  capable  of  it  as  the  rich; 
yea,  when  it  is  so  hard  for  the  rich  to  enter,  that 
thou  hast  put  out  of  my  way  many  of  the  snares 
and  temptations  that  hinder  others.  And  my 
poverty  cannot  keep  me  out  of  thy  glory ;  but 
when  I  am  also  poor  in  spirit,  as  well  as  low  in 
the  world,  I  have  thy  promise  of  the  kingdom  of 
heaven.  My  God  !  grant  me  that  poverty  of  spirit, 
and  those  better  things  that  accompany  salvation ; 
and  then  how  short  soever  I  am  kept  in  this  life, 
thy  will  be  done;  though  I  have  nothing  to  de- 
pend upon  in  the  world ;  yet  I  will  rejoice  in  the 
Lord,  I  will  joy  in  the  God  of  my  salvation ; 
having  thee  for  my  God,  and  chiefest  good,  and 
my  most  gracious  Father  in  Jesus  Christ.  O 
Lord,  give  me  thyself,  and  then  I  have  all;  and 
for  that  best  of  gifts,  1  will  bless  thy  name  for 
evermore.  Amen. 


The  Master  of  a  Family  his  Prayer. 

O  MOST  high  God,  the  great  Lord  of  all, 
whose  providence  disposes  the  several 
ranks  of  men  in  the  world;  and  thy  word  gives 
rules  to  masters,  as  well  as  servants,  how  to  de- 
mean themselves  in  their  respective  places.  It 
is  thou,  my  Lord,  who  hast  made  me  the  head  of 
this  house:  O  that  I  may  walk  in  it  with  an  up- 
right heart;  and  not  shelter  any  ill  thing  offensive 
to  God  or  man,  under  my  roof!  but  countenancing 
the  pious,  correcting  the  vicious,  and  yielding  my- 
self a  pattern  of  all  that  good  which  ought  to  be 
seen  in  the  rest;  let  me  so  command  my  children, 
and  my  household  after  me,  that  they  may  keep 


For  the  Master  of  a  Family.  305 

the  way  of  the  Lord.  And  as  forme  and  my 
house,  let  us  ever  in  faithfulness  serve  the  Lord. 
O  that  there  may  not  be  a  hypocrite,  nor  an  un- 
reriewed  profane  person  among  us.  Let  not  me 
that  am  called  a  master,  myself  serve  sin,  nor  be 
enslaved  by  my  own  passions  and  lusts;  but  have 
the  dominion  over  myself;  and  keep  my  eyes  ever 
waiting  upon  the  Lord  my  God,  even  as  the  eyes 
of  servants  are  in  the  hands  of  their  masters. 

O  that  my  wife  may  be  the  spouse  of  Christ ;  my 
children  the  children  of  God;  my  servants  the 
servants  of  the  Lord!  and  all  the  members  of  my 
family  the  true  members  of  thy  church,  and  the 
constant  followers  of  all  that  is  laudable  and  good. 
Let  me  not  carry  myself  with  rigour  and  a  high 
hand,  or  despise  the  cause  even  of  my  servants; 
but  with  patience  and  fairness  hear  them;  and 
give  unto  them  that  which  is  just  and  equal,  know- 
ing that  I  also  have  a  master  in  heaven.  Let  me 
not  insult  over  any  that  are  under  the  yoke ;  nor 
be  severe  and  cruel  to  them ;  nor  oppress  and 
defraud  them  in  their  wages,  nor  any  rewards  or 
encouragements  that  they  may  justly  expect  from 
me.  But  let  my  dealings  with  them,  and  my 
usage  with  them,  be  upright  and  candid,  merci- 
ful and  kind;  taking  care  of  their  bodies  and 
their  souls,  of  their  maintenance  and  their  car- 
riage, and  all  that  concerns  them  as  their  benign 
patron,  and  their  faithful  friend;  and  treating 
them  with  all  due  regard,  as  my  brethren  and 
fellow-servants,  and  my  equals  in  the  worship  of 
God,  with  whom  is  no  respect  of  persons.  O  give 
me,  Lord,  an  understanding  heart  and  prudent 
conduct,  and  such  a  spirit  of  government,  that  I 
may  go  in  and  out  before  my  people  as  one  that 
is  taught  of  God,  and  commanding  nothing  but  in 


306  The  Servant's  Prayer. 

the  Lord,  according  to  thy  will,  and  for  the  ad- 
vancement of  thy  glory. 

O  bless  my  house,  Lord,  and  preserve  it  from 
vice  and  ungodliness,  and  from  all  disorders  and 
dangers,  and  make  it  a  nursery  of  virtue  and 
piety,  and  all  that  is  exemplary,  and  of  good  re- 
port. Direct,  O  God,  arid  help  us  every  one  in 
the  discharge  of  our  several  offices  ;  that  we  may 
employ  ourselves  as  we  ought,  and  with  quiet- 
ness do  our  own  business;  never  forgetting,  but 
above  all  respecting  and  pursuing  the  great  work 
of  the  Lord,  for  which  thou  didst  send  us  into  the 
world.  O  keep  us  all  evermore  in  thy  fear  and 
love;  safe  under  thy  tuition  and  upon  the  holy 
way  to  thy  heavenly  kingdom ;  through  thy  mer- 
cy to  us  all,  in  our  common  Lord  and  Saviour 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

The  Servanfs  Prayer. 

OGOD,  the  Father  Almighty,  maker  of  hea- 
ven and  earth  !  it  is  the  ordination  of  thy 
good  providence,  that  there  should  be  various 
ranks  and  degrees  of  men;  and  that  I  should  be 
disposed  of  in  the  station  where  now  I  am. 
Wherefore  I  submit,  Lord,  to  thy  most  wise  ap- 
pointment of  all  things;  and  desire,  with  content 
and  thankfulness,  to  accept  of  my  portion,  how 
low  soever  in  the  world.  If  my  blessed  Redeem- 
er, who  is  Lord  of  all.  would  take  upon  him  the 
form  of  a  servant,  and  condescend  even  to  tne 
meanest  offices  for  the  service  of  our  souls;  O 
why  should  I  be  aggrieved  to  be  a  servant  under 
the  yoke?  when  in  serving  man  as  I  ought,  I  do 
also  serve  the  Lord;  and  though  bound  to  others 
I  may  be  the  Lord's  freeman  :  yea,  in  faithfully 
discharging  the  duties  of  my  place,  I  shall  be  as 


The  Servant's  Prayer.  307 

acceptable  to  my  God  as  any  that  enjoy  the  high- 
est station.  I  leave  it  to  thee,  O  Lord  of  all,  to 
choose  my  inheritance  for  me.  Only  I  beg  at  thy 
hands  that  my  lot  may  fall  where  my  soul  may 
prosper,  though  I  work  or  fare  the  harder.  For 
if  my  soul  do  well,  I  shall  be  for  ever  happy.  If 
my  heart  be  right  with  God,  I  shall  have  his  bless- 
ed countenance  and  love.  And  if  I  be  found  in 
the  way  of  righteousness,  I  shall  be  exalted  in 
due  time,  however  abased  at  present  O  my  su- 
preme Lord !  let  it  not  be  so  much  my  care  to 
get  higher  in  the  world,  as  to  get  more  in  thy  fa- 
vour, wherein  is  life.  Let  it  be  more  my  concern, 
to  fill  my  place,  and  discharge  my  duty  with 
faithfulness,  than  to  change  it  for  more  ease, 
profit  or  honour. 

O  Let  me  not  be  the  servant  of  sin,-but  enjoy 
the  blessed  liberty  wherewith  Christ  Jesus  sets 
all  his  people  free;  the  liberty  from  sinful  bond- 
age, the  liberty  to  follow  my  Lord  carefully, 
and  to  run  the  wray  of  thy  commands  with  an  en- 
larged heart.  And,  Lord,  be  thou  pleased  to  fit 
me  for,  and  teach  and  help  me  in  the  service  to 
which  I  am  called ;  that  1  may  perform  it  to  the 
glory  of  thy  name,  to  the  pleasure  and  welfare 
of  those  whom  I  serve,  arid  my  own  true  advan- 
tage, and  comfort.  O  make  me  true  and  faithful, 
careful  and  diligent,  humble  and  obedient,  meek 
and  patient,  fair  arid  peaceable;  doing  the  busi- 
ness of  my  place,  not  with  eye-service  as  a  man- 
pleaser;  but  in  singleness  of  heart,  fearing  God. 
Not  cross  and  froward,  but  apt  to  bear,  and  de- 
ny myself;  not  answering  again,  to  stir  up  wrath; 
but  with  silence  and  submission,  following  the 
things  that  make  for  peace;  not  debasing  my 
master  to  set  off  myself;  nor  doing  him  any  dam- 


308  The  Soldier's  Prayer. 

age  for  my  own  filthy  lucre,  or  fleshly  pleasure, 
but  tendering  his  credit  and  interest  as  one  that 
would  be  found  faithful  in  the  sight  of  my  G@d, 
who  evermore  seest  in  secret,  and  searchest  the 
very  heart:  and  make  me,  I  beseech  thee,  such 
every  way  towards  thee,  that  thou  mayest  mer- 
cifully accept  me,  and  all  my  service,  for  the 
sake  of  thy  beloved  Son,  my  blessed  Saviour  and 
Redeemer,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

The  Soldier's  Prayer. 

OLORD  God  of  hosts!  who  hast  all  the 
creatures  in  heaven  and  in  earth  ready  to 
fight  thy  battles,  and  execute  thy  pleasure!  thou 
didst  not  sow  any  seeds  of  enmity  in  our  nature; 
but  didst  create  man  endued  with  all  the  princi- 
ples of  love  and  dispositions  to  peace.  It  is  from 
our  lust  and  sins,  that  the  wars  and  fightings 
come  amongst  us.  First  we  fell  out  with  our 
God,  and  our  happiness;  and  ever  since  it  is  a 
contentious,  quarrelsome  world  that  we  live  in, 
where  restless  men  are  jostling  one  another,  and 
striving  for  that  ease  and  content  which  the  world 
has  not  for  them.  Now  that  I  am  in  this  military 
station,  O  Lord,  instruct  and  enable  me  to  behave 
myself  therein  as  I  ought.  O  make  me  the  faith- 
ful soldier  of  Jesus  Christ,  in  that  spiritual  war- 
fare, wherein  I  am  to  combat  with  the  enemies 
that  war  against  my  soul.  And  that  I  may  have 
peace  with  my  God,  let  me  have  no  peace  with 
my  sins,  nor  any  part  or  lot  with  the  rebels 
against  heaven;  nor  be  carried  away  with  any 
ungodly  example,  into  such  wickedness,  against 
which  thou,  O  God,  hast  declared  thy  wrath  from 
heaven.  O  grant  that  I  may  never  so  strive  with 
my  Maker,  nor  allow  myself  in  such  a  habit  of 


The  Soldier's  Prayer.  309 

mind,  and  course  of  life,  as  are  enmity  against 
God ;  but  ever  dread  more  to  fall  into  thy  hands 
than  theirs,  that  can  but  kill  the  body;  and 
show  myself  the  more  zealous  for  thee  the  more 
I  see  others  set  themselves  against  thee.  O 
Lord  most  high !  make  me  valiant  for  thy  cause, 
as  well  as  that  for  man,  wherein  I  am  now  en- 
gaged. And  preserve  me,  O  my  God,  from  the 
profaneness  and  blasphemy,  the  lewdness  and 
debauchery,  the  rudeness  and  violence  that  are 
most  incident  to  men  of  this  profession;  that  I 
may  not  be  infected  with  their  contagion,  but 
preserve  my  integrity,  amidst  all  the  temptations 
wherewith  I  am  surrounded. 

Though  the  sword  is  in  my  hand,  let  the 
peace  of  God  rule  in  my  heart;  and  though  1 
am  a  soldier,  let  me  not  be  a  man  of  blood,  de- 
lighting in  war;  but  a  ready  servant  of  my  coun- 
try, a  faithful  instrument  for  our  common  defence 
and  safety,  and  a  dutiful  subject  to  the  powers 
ordained  of  God,  for  the  Lord's  sake.  O  my 
strength  and  my  Redeemer,  strengthen  my  heart 
and  hands  for  the  service  to  which  I  am  called; 
^and  make  me  successful  and  victorious,  through 
'thy  blessing  and  power  from  on  high.  It  isthou, 
Lord,  only,  that  makest  us  to  dwell  in  safety: 
O  cover  my  head  in  the  day  of  battle;  and  in 
all  times  of  danger,  be  thou  my  shield  and  buck- 
ler.— And  either  keep  the  evil  from  me,  or  arm 
me  for  it,  that  I  may  not  be  ruined  by  it,  but 
gain  good  out  of  it,  and  find  bodily  hurts  making 
for  the  health  of  my  soul:  and  even  the  tempo- 
ral death  but  a  sjate  opened  to  eternal  life.  And 
seeing  I  go  with  my  life  in  my  hands,  and  am 
more  exposed  than  other  men  to  dangers  and 
death,  O  make  me  more  careful  of  my  soul,  more 


310  For  the  Melancholy  and  Dejected. 

mindful  of  my  latter  end,  and  more  diligent  to 
put  and  keep  myself  in  a  preparation  and  readi- 
ness to  die.  And  whether  J  prosper  or  miscarry  in 
the  attempts  and  enterprises  wherein  I  am  now 
concerned,  O  let  my  soul  be  ever  precious  in 
thy  sight,  and  safe  in  thy  hands.  Help  me,  O 
my  supreme  Commander,  the  great  Captain  of 
our  salvation,  so  to  live,  that  I  may  find  it  the 
greatest  gain  to  die;  and  let  me  go  on,  as 
Christ's  faithful  soldier,  so  conquering  and  to 
conquer  the  enemies  of  thy  glory,  and  the  hin- 
derances  of  my  own  and  others'  salvation,  that 
having  overcome,  I  may  sit  down  in  thy  king- 
dom, and  triumph  in  thy  sweetest  love,  and  in 
thy  heavenly  joy  and  thy  most  glorious  praises, 
world  without  end.  Jlmm. 

Jl  Prayer  for  the  Melancholy  and  Dejected. 

OMOST  good  and  gracious  Lord!  thou 
knowest  our  frame,  and  art  a  God  full  of 
compassion,  to  pity  and  relieve  thy  servants  un- 
der their  trouble  and  oppression.  Look  down,  we 
humbly  pray  thee,  with  thy  wonted  pity,  and 
remember  in  tender  mercy  the  work  of  thy 
hands,  our  ^disconsolate  friend;  this  troubled 
soul,  that  is  even  distracted  in  suffering  thy  ter- 
rors; while  thy  wrath  lies  hard  upon  him,  and 
all  thy  waves  and  billows  are  gone  over  him  to 
disturb  his  peace,  and  oppress  his  mind,  and  un- 
fit him  rightly  to  use  his  reason,  or  discharge  his 
duty.  O  thou  that  speakestthe  winds  and  waves 
into  obedience  and  calmness,  settle  and  q^iet  his 
discomposed  breast;  speak  peace  and  satisfac- 
tion to  his  troubled  mind;  and  give  him  comfort 
and  sweet  repose,  in  the  sense  of  thy  pardon 
and  love.  Lord  help  his  unbelief,  arid  increase 


For  the  Lunatic  and  Distracted.  311 

his  faith,  that  he  may  not  be  faithless  but  believ- 
ing. Though  he  now  walk  in  darkness  and  has 
no  light,  let  him  trust  in  the  name  of  the  Lord, 
and  stay  upon  his  God.  Arid  in  the  multitude 
of  the  thoughts  and  sorrows  that  he  has  in  his 
heart,  O  let  thy  comforts  come  in  to  refresh  his 
soul.  Be  thou  pleased,  Lord,  to  deliver  and  ease 
him  of  the  load  that  lies  upon  his  spirit;  and  let 
in  the  beam  of  thy  heavenly  light,  to  scatter  and 
dispel  all  the  clouds  and  darkness  in  which  his 
mind  is  wrapt  up.  O  direct  to  the  means  most 
proper  for  his  help,  and  bless  and  prosper  them 
so,  that  they  may  be  efficacious  to  promote  his 
recovery  out  of  this  low  and  doleful  estate.  In- 
cline his  ears  to  wholesome  counsels,  and  fashion 
his  heart  to  receive  due  impressions.  O  gracious 
Father  !  pity  his  frailty,  and  forgive  his  iniquity; 
arid  heal  him,  Lord,  both  in  soul  and  body;  re- 
buking his  distemper  so,  that  his  disquieted  soul 
may  return  to  its  rest.  O  raise  him  up  and  make 
him  whole.  Yea,  make  haste,  O  Lord,  to  show 
mercy  upon  him,  even  for  thy  own  mercy's  sake 
in  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed  Saviour  and  Re- 
deemer. Amen. 

Jl  Prayer  for  the  Lunatic  and  Distracted. 

OLORD,  the  only  wise  God  !  thou  givest  un- 
derstanding, and  takest  it  away  as  thou 
pleasest;  and  thou  art  holy  and  righteous  in  all 
that  ever  thou  dost.  Though  the  reason  and 
meaning  of  many  of  thy  works  are  unknown  to 
us  ;  yet  still  thou  knowest  well  what  thou  hast  to 
do;  and  we  must  be  dumb,  and  open  not  our 
mouths,  when  it  is  thy  doing.  The  stroke  which 
thou  hast  laid  upon  thy  poor  creature,  would  be 
just  upon  any  of  us;  and  we  must  acknowledge 


For  the  Lunatic  and  Distracted. 

it  owing  only  to  thy  mercy  that  it  is  any  better 
for  us.  But  in  tender  compassion  of  his  pitiable 
condition,  we  take  upon  us  to  beg  thy  merciful 
relief  in  his  behalf.  For  thou,  Lord,  that  givest 
sense  and  discretion,  canst  as  easily  renew  them 
when  impaired:  and  thou  that  madest  thy  ser- 
vant out  of  nothing,  canst  also  bring  him  to  him- 
self again,  and  help  him  to  use  his  reason  aright, 
as  he  ought. 

O  dispel  the  clouds  in  which  now  his  soul  is 
wrapped  up,  that  he  may  come  to  a  good  under- 
standing of  himself,  and  the  things  of  his  peace; 
reduce  and  heal  the  crazed  and  broken  faculties; 
or  else  settle  and  quiet  them.  Have  pity,  we  be- 
seech thee,  O  Lord,  upon  him,  and  impute  not 
unto  him  any  thing  that  is  now  said  or  done  amiss 
by  him;  but  in  mercy  pass  it  by,  as  if  it  had  not 
been  said  or  done  at  all. 

O  that  thou  wouldst  direct  to  some  means  for 
help  in  this  case,  and  make  him  tractable  to  the 
use  of  remedies,  and  willing  and  ready  to  comply 
with  the  advice  of  his  friends,  till  he  shall  be  in 
better  capacity  to  manage  and  help  himself;  and 
where  no  means  will  reach  to  work  the  cure,  thou 
that  canst  open  the  doors  which  are  barred 
against  us,  and  art  never  at  such  a  loss  but  thou 
knowest  how  to  deliver;  O  reveal  thy  glorious 
arm,  without  means,  to  bring  salvation  from  above; 
and  do  the  work  worthy  of  God,  to  command 
that  deliverance  which  is  out  of  our  prospect  to 
see  effected ;  that  thy  name  may  have  all  the 
glory  of  such  thy  great  and  wonderful  mercy  in 
Jesus  Christ.  Jlmm. 


For  insensible  Sinners.  313 

A  Prayer  for  insensible  Sinners. 

OLORD,  the  great  Almighty  God,  who 
quickenest  the  dead,  and  callest  those 
things  that  are  not,  as  if  they  were:  with  thee 
nothing  is  impossible;  but  the  things  that  resist 
all  the  skill  and  power  of  man,  thy  divine  virtue 
and  glorious  operation,  with  the  greatest  facility, 
brings  to  pass.  Thou,  the  living  God,  canst 
speak  life  to  souls  dead  in  trespasses  and  sins; 
and  make  even  such  as  lie  in  the  grave  of  all 
their  habitual  corruptions,  hear  the  voice  of  the 
Son  of  God  and  live.  It  is  the  great  work  of  thy 
eternal  Spirit,  Lord,  to  convince  the  world  of  sin; 
and  to  make  inconsiderate,  careless  sinners  to 
know  themselves,  and  be  concerned  as  they 
ought  about  the  case  of  their  souls.  O  that 
these  poor  insensible  wretches,  who  have  sinned 
themselves  even  past  feeling  may  find  such  mer- 
cy from  the  Lord,  and  yet  come  to  feel  in  them- 
selves the  irresistible  force  of  thy  hand.  O  that 
thou  wouldst  open  their  eyes,  to  see  their  case, 
and  soften  their  hearts  to  bewail  their  sins;  and 
turn  their  course  to  flee  from  the  wrath  to  come! 
Blessed  Lord,  awaken  them  with  thy  terrors,  be- 
fore they  be  overtaken  by  thy  judgments!  O 
break  in  upon  their  souls  by  thy  mighty  convic- 
tions, to  set  them  in  bitterness  for  their  sins;  and 
let  thy  quick  and  powerful  word  pierce  into  their 
hearts,  to  make  them  cry  and  seek  out,  what  they 
must  do  to  be  saved ! 

O  if  they  did  but  apprehend  their  case,  and 
know  their  transgressions,  they  that  remain 
so  remorseless  and  unconcerned,  as  if  nothing 
were  amiss  with  them,  and  that  can  indulge  them- 
selves in  pleasure  and  mirth,  as  if  they  were  in 
2D 


314       The  condemned  Malefactor's  Prayer. 

the  happiest  condition,  would  soon  be  struck 
down  to  the  deepest  heaviness  and  consternation, 
refusing  to  be  comforted;  and  go  mourning  all 
the  day  long,  yea,  even  roar  for  the  disquietness 
of  their  hearts.  O  God  of  all  grace,  be  thou 
pleased  in  mercy  to  show  such  seeming  severity; 
to  write  bitter  things  against  them,  and  make 
them  confess  their  former  iniquities;  and  to  feel 
now  the  weight  and  horror  of  all  their  sins,  that 
they  may  not  feel  it  eternally  when  past  remedy. 
Direct  and  empower  thy  messengers,  Lord,  to 
speak  home  to  their  conviction,  crying  aloud, 
and  not  sparing  to  show  them  their  transgres- 
sions and  their  sins.  Yea,  make  thy  word  in  thy 
servants'  mouths  as  fire,  to  entiime  and  rouse  the 
consciences  of  such  drowsy  secure  sinners,  that 
they  may  come  to  perceive  what  a  forlorn,  lost 
condition,  they  are  in  ;  and  be  restless  in  them- 
selves till  coming  unto  Christ,  labouring  and 
heavy  laden  under  the  load  of  their  sins,  in  him 
they  may  find  rest  for  their  souls.  O  thou  Al- 
mighty God  !  do  marvellous  things,  worthy  of 
thyself  in  taking  away  that  which  blinds  the 
minds,  and  hardens  the  hearts  of  such  stupid 
creatures;  and  bring  them  out  of  the  worst  leth- 
argy and  deadness,  to  understand  themselves, 
and  seek  after  God,  and  to  take  and  to  follow 
the  way  of  peace  with  thee,  through  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ.  Jtmen. 

The  condemned  Malefactor's  Prayer. 

OUT  of  the  depths  do  I  cry  to  thee,  O  Lord ! 
Lord,  hear  my  voice:  let  thy  ears  be  at- 
tentive to  the  voice  of  rny  supplication.    If  thou* 
O  Lord,  shouldst  mark  iniquities,  O  Lord,  who 
should  stand  !  but  there  is  forgiveness  with  thee 


The  condemned  Malefactor's  Prayer.       315 

that  *hou  mayest  be  feared.  Therefore  I  wait  for 
the  Lord  ;  my  soul  does  wait,  and  in  thy  word  do 
I  hope.  Though  my  sins  have  found  me  out,  and 
brought  me. to  shame,  and  they  are  heinous  be- 
yond expression,  and  the  thought  and  remem- 
brance of  them  fills  me  with  horror  and  confu- 
sion; yet  I  believe,  Lord  help  my  unbelief,  they 
are  not  greater  than  thy  Son  has  satisfied  for,  nor 
greater  than  thy  mercy  in  him  can  set  me  clear 
from,  as  bad  and  as  sad  as  ever  I  have  made  my 
case.  Woe  is  me,  vile  and  wretched  that  I  am,  so 
foolishly  and  wickedly  that  1  have  done!  yet  it  is 
not  past  thy  help  and  care,  O  Lord  God  Almighty, 
who  at  the  lowest  canst  raise,  and  at  the  worst  art 
able  to  relieve  us. — Except  we  repent,  thou  hast 
told  us,  that  we  shall  perish,  but  upon  our  repent- 
ance, thou  hast  promised  thy  gracious  forgiveness. 
And  though  sin  has  abound  ed,  yet  when  we  forsake 
our  wicked  way;  and  thoughts,  and  return  to  the 
Lord  our  God,  thou  hast  promised  to  have  mer- 
cy upon  us,  and  abundantly  to  pardon.  He  that 
believeth  not  on  the  Son  of  God  is  condemned 
with  a  worse  condemnation  than  what  I  now  lie 
under :  but  it  is  thy  own  most  true  and  faithful 
word,  O  Lord,  that  whosoever  believes  in  him 
shall  not  perish,  but  have  everlasting  life;  and 
that  he  who  confesseth  and  forsaketh  his  sins, 
shall  have  mercy.  Though  I  cannot  find  such 
mercy  at  man's  tribunal,  yet  I  beg  it  of  thee,  the 
Father  of  mercies,  who  art  the  helper  of  the 
friendless,  and  dost  not  reject  the  cry  even  of  fools 
in  their  distress,  though  because  of  their  sins  they 
are  afflicted,  but  rememberest  us  in  our  low  es- 
tate, out  of  that  mercy  of  thine  which  endures  for 
ever.  O  thou  that  hast  promised  to  forgive  every 
penitent  sinner,  make  me,  Lord,  I  beseech  thee, 


316       The  condemned  Malefactor's  Prayer. 

one  of  that  number.  O  touch  my  heart  with  true 
remorse,  that  it  may  melt  and  bleed  for  my  sins, 
and  become  such  a  broken  contrite  heart,  as 
thou  wilt  not  despise. 

O  that  the  doleful  circumstances  which  I  am 
in,  may  be  turned,  through  the  riches  of  thy 
grace,  into  a  happy  occasion  of  converting  my 
soul,  and  perfecting  my  repentance,  and  pro- 
moting my  salvation!  This  is  a  time  of  shame 
and  sorrow  with  me ;  but  help  me,  good  God,  so 
to  repent  and  be  converted,  that  my  sins  may 
be  blotted  out,  wrhen  the  times  of  refreshing 
shall  come  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord.  Par- 
don my  sin,  for  it  is  great;  too  great  for  any  but 
the  God  of  infinite  goodness  and  love  to  give  me 
a  merciful  discharge  from:  and  that  thou  mayest 
have  the  everlasting  glory  and  my  soul  the  re- 
freshing fruit  of  thy  mercy,  O  Lord,  prepare  me 
for  it  by  such  a  serious  repentance  as  thy  holy 
word  requires  of  sinners,  and  such  as  thy  good- 
ness in  Christ  Jesus  will  mercifully  accept  at  my 
hands.  What  is  past  I  cannot  recall;  but  thouf 
Lord,  canst  remit  it,  and  give  me  grace  to  repent 
of  it;  O  give  me  such  sound  repentance  for  my 
sins,  that  thou  mayest  also  give  me  full  pardon 
of  them;  and  never  lay  them  to  my  charge,  but 
upon  the  account  of  thy  beloved  Son,  our  bless- 
ed Saviour,  who  came  to  seek  and  to  save  that 
which  was  lost;  and  who  himself  suffered  and 
died  once,  that  we  might  not  suffer  and  die  eter- 
nally. O  wash  me  thoroughly  from  my  iniquity, 
and  cleanse  me  from  my  sin,  in  that  fountain 
opened  for  sin  and  foruncleanness,  the  precious 
blood  of  the  immaculate  Lamb  of  God,  slain  to 
take  away  the  sins  of  the  world,  that  thou  may- 
est not  abhor  my  soul,  as  I  have  justly  deserved; 


The  condemned  Malefactor's  Prayer.       317 

but,  of  thy  wonderful  mercy,  accept  me  in  the 
Son  of  thy  eternal  love,  in  whom  thou  art  well 
pleased. 

My  soul  isexceedingsorrowful  even  unto  death. 

0  most  gracious  Lord !  grant  that    my  sorrow 
may  be  the  godly  sorrow;  not  only  a  sorrowing 
for  the  bitter  consequences  of  my  sin,  but  for  the 
sin  itself,  and  for  my  wicked  offending  of  thee, 
my  great  Lord  God,  as  I  have  done.     O  blessed 
Jesus,  who  earnest  to  call  sinners  to  repentance, 
and  thyself  didst  hang  upon  the  cross,  and  show 
thy  compassion  and  great  salvation  upon  the  poor 
malefactor  there  suffering ;  remember  me  now  in 
such  mercy,  Lord,  for  thy  own  mercy's  sake.     O 
Son  of  David,  have  mercy  upon  me.     Both  now 
and  ever,  vouchsafe  to  hear  me,  O  Christ ;  gra- 
ciously hear  me,  O  Lord  Christ;  and  let  thy  mer- 
cy be  showed  upon  me,  as  I  do  put  my  tnut  in 
thee.    O  glorify  this  thy  mercy  in  my  salvation, 
and  not  thy  justice  in  my  destruction. 

Though  confusion  is  now  my  portion,  yet  help 
me,  Lord,  so  to  bear  thy  just  indignation,  and  to 
obtain  such  benefit  to  my  soul,  out  of  the  punish- 
ment of  my  body,  that  I  may  not  hereafter  awake 
to  shame  and  everlasting  contempt.  And  though 

1  am  now  under  the  sentence  of  a  temporal  death, 
yet  spare  my  soul,  O  most  merciful  Lord,  and  de- 
liver me  not  into  the  bitter  pains  of  eternal  death. 

O  that  I  may  hnve  all  the  shame  and  sorrow, 
and  evil  things  in  this  life,  that  thou  mayest  spare 
me  for  ever;  and  show  forth  all  the  wonders  of 
thy  grace,  and  power,  and  mercy,  to  prepare  me 
for,  and  support  me  under  the  deserved  punish- 
ment which  I  am  shortly  to  suffer,  and  to  give  me 
hope  in  my  death,  even  in  this  infamous  death; 
and  after  death  some  part  in  thy  kingdom,  if  but 


318  A  Prayer  for  Christmas. 

to  be  the  least  and  lowest  in  the  house  of  my 
God,  for  the  sake  of  thy  own  tender  mercies,  and 
for  the  infinite  merits  of  the  great  Redeemer  of 
the  world,  my  only  Lord  and  Saviour,  Jesus 
Christ.  Amen,  Jlmen. 

Prayer  and  Praise  upon  the  Occasion  of  our  blessed 
Saviour's  coming  into  the  ivorld. 

BLESSING,  and  honour,  arid  glory,  and 
power,  be  to  him  that  sitteth  upon  the 
throne,  and  to  the  Lamb,  for  ever  and  ever.  O 
Lord  God  of  our  salvation !  thou  hast  remem- 
bered us  in  our  low  estate,  out  of  that  mercy  of 
thine  which  endures  for  ever.  Thou  hast  raised 
up  a  great  salvation  and  mighty  deliverance  for 
us;  to  heal  the  sinful,  to  help  the  miserable,  and 
to  save  that  which  was  lost.  None  but  thy  bless- 
ed self,  O  Lord,  the  gracious  Giver,  knows  the 
greatness  of  that  gift,  which  thou  hast  conferred 
upon  us;  the  greatest  that  thou  couldst  give  or 
man  receive,  in  giving  thy  only  Son  to  be  our 
Almighty  Saviour,  to  deliver  us  from  the  eternal 
miseries  of  hell,  and  to  make  us  meet  to  be  par- 
takers of  the  heavenly  inheritance  of  thy  saints  in 
light.  O  how  wonderful  have  been  the  designs 
of  thy  love,  and  the  counsels  of  thy  wisdom,  to 
recover  our  poor  lost  souls,  and  to  work  for  them 
a  salvation  worthy  of  God!  that  God  should  be 
manifested  in  the  flesh,  to  destroy  the  works  of 
the  devil;  and  that  the  eternally  Beloved  of  thy 
soul,  should  be  made  Son  of  man,  to  make  us, 
sinful  men,  the  children  of  God  !  O  what  manner 
of  love  has  the  Father  bestowed  upon  us!  ex- 
ceeding all  that  ever  we  are  able  to  say  of  it!  O 
that  we  and  all  men  may  praise  thee,  Lord,  for 
thy  goodness,  and  such  thy  wonderful  works  to 


A  Prayer  for  Christmas.  319 

the  children  of  men  :  that  we  may  ever,  with  all 
admiration  and  reverence,  and  thankfulness,  re- 
ceive and  ponder  this  great  mystery  of  godliness: 
and  that  we  may  return  the  glory  of  salvation 
up  to  thee,  who  hast  se-nt  the  joy  of  salvation 
down  to  us,  that  our  souls  may  magnify  the  Lord, 
and  our  spirits  rejoice  in  God  our  Saviour;  and 
blessed  be  the  Lord  God  of  Israel,  that  has  so 
visited  and  redeemed  his  people. 

And  now  that  thou  hast  laid  help  upon  one 
that  is  mighty;  and  found  a  ransom  for  us,  and 
made  the  all-sufficient  provision  to  save  us;  O 
help  thou  us,  Lord  our  God,  as  we  ought,  to  en- 
tertain and  welcome  the  joyful  news,  that  Jesus 
Christ  is  come  into  the  world  to  save  sinners.  Fa- 
ther of  mercies,  prepare  us  for  the  blessed  Saviour 
which  thou  hast  prepared  for  us:  that  he  who 
came  into  the  world  in  the  fulness  of  time,  may 
come  into  our  souls  with  the  fulness  of  his  grace, 
and  with  all  the  blessings  and  consolations  of  his 
coming ;  and  that,  as  he  was  miraculously  formed 
in  the  Virgin's  womb,  he  may  be  spiritually  form- 
ed in  our  hearts.  O  thou  great  Lord  and  lover 
of  souls !  remember  our  souls  in  mercy,  with  the 
favour  which  thou  bearest  to  thy  people;  and 
visit  us  with  the  joy  of  thy  salvation.  O  make 
the  way  of  salvation  plain  before  us,  that  we 
mny  know  where  our  help  lies,  and  what  we 
mnst  do  to  be  saved.  And  incline  and  quicken 
us,  O  Lord,  with  all  readiness  to  take  that  way, 
and  to  embrace  that  grace  of  God  which  brings 
salvation,  and  to.comply  with  the  gracious  designs 
of  thy  mercy,  to  do  us  the  greatest  good,  to  make 
us  forever  happy.  O  blessed  Saviour,  be  thou 
an  effectual  Saviour  unto  us  :  and  so  save  us  from 
our  sins,  that  thou  mayest  also  save  us  from  the 


320  For  the  Passion-Day. 

wrath  to  come.  So  redeem  us  here  from  all  ini- 
quity, that  hereafter  thou  mayest  redeem  us  from 
everlasting  misery.  Thou  earnest  down  to  earth, 
to  raise  us  up  to  heaven;  and  tookest  our  nature, 
to  make  us  partakers  of  thine.  O  that  we  may  ex- 
perience the  mighty  power  of  thy  great  salvation 
upon  us,  to  heal  our  depraved  natures,  to  sancti- 
fy our  sinful  souls,  and  to  make  us  such  lovers 
and  followers  of  thy  holy  ways,  that  we  may  have 
in  us  Christ  the  hope  of  glory,  and  those  good 
things  of  thy  Spirit  which  do  accompany  salva- 
tion. And  for  all  the  great  and  strange  things 
which  thou  hast  so  graciously  done  for  us,  in  re- 
vealing thy  salvation  and  opening  the  doors  of 
hope  to  us,  and  putting  us  in  the  way  to  that 
blissful  end  of  our  faith,  the  eternal  salvation  of 
our  souls,  which  thou  hast  purchased  for  us. 
Unto  thee,  O  blessed  God  our  Saviour,  in  the 
unity  of  the  ever-glorious  Trinity,  be  all  thanks 
and  praise,  and  honour,  and  glory,  rendered  by 
us  and  all  thy  church  now  and  for  evermore.  Amen 

4  Prayer  on  the  Occasion  of  our  blessed  Saviour's 
Death. 

OGOD,  the  Father  of  mercies,  and  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  through  whom  every 
mercy  is  vouchsafed  and  derived  unto  us;  thou 
Jidst  create  us  after  thy  own  blessed  image,  in 
a  holy  and  happy  estate,  but  we  have  defaced 
thy  first  handy  work,  and  put  ourselves  not  only 
in  a  case  of  strangeness  unto  thee,  but  of  enmity 
against  thee;  in  Adam  all  die;  and  by  the  offence 
of  one,  judgment  came  upon  all  men  to  condemn- 
ation: yet  thou  hast  not  used  us  as  enemies,  to 
leave  us  in  the  sad  ruins  of  our  fall;  but  hadst 
an  eye  of  pity  to  us,  lying  in  our  blood,  to  bid  us 


For  the  Passi(M-Dny.  321 

live :  though  thy  own  eternal  beloved  Son  was 
fain  to  die,  to  save  us  from  that  everlasting  death, 
which  is  the  due  wages  of  our  sins,  yet  him  thou 
sparedst  not,  that  thou  mightest  spare  us,  and 
make  us  the  eternal  monuments  of  thy  saving 
mercy.  O  what  amazing  unspeakable  love  is  this, 
that  even  when  enemies  we  should  be  reconcil- 
ed to  God,  by  the  death  of  his  Son!  But  O  the 
cursed  nature  of  sin,  to  be  hated  with  a  perfect 
hatred,  that  had  need  of  such  an  atonement !  O 
the  dreadful  justice  of  God,  how  should  we  ever 
stand  in  awe  of  it!  that  required  such  a  satisfac- 
tion! O  the  love  of  Christ,  which  passeth  know- 
ledge, that  would  redeem  our  poor  lost  souls  at 
such  a  costly  rate !  and  shed  his  own  precious 
blood  to  save  us  !  And  O  the  precious  death  of 
our  Lord  Redeemer,  to  be  had  in  everlasting  re- 
membrance! By  it  we  abide,  and  upon  that  we 
depend  for  the  pardon  of  all  our  sins;  and  for 
our  whole  acceptance  with  God,  both  here  and 
for  ever.  Though  we  could  not  satisfy  thy  jus- 
tice, O  God.  for  our  sins,  should  we  suffer  eter- 
nally; yet  thy  Son  has  satisfied  in  full,  and  no- 
thing at  all  remains  on  their  score,  for  whom  thou 
art  pleased  to  accept  his  infinite  satisfaction. 
And  seeing  there  is  balm  in  Gilead,  and  a  Phy- 
sician that  is  able  to  heal  us,  O  let  not  our  souls 
be  unhealed :  let  not  the  great  things  which  our 
i  Lord  Redeemer  hath  done  and  endured  for  poor 
lost  sinners,  be  lost  unto  us;  but  let  the  same  be 
mercifully  accepted  upon  our  account,  and  for 
our  sins.  O  let  not  the  blood  of  Jesus  Christ,  as 
to  us,  be  shed  in  vain;  but  let  it  purge  and  purify 
us  from  all  our  sins,  and  make  our  peace  with 
thee,  the  just  and  holy  God,  against  whom  we 
have  greatly  sinned  :  that  we  may  be  healed  by  his 


322  For  the  Passion-Day. 

stripes,  and  find  his  death  unto  us  the  savour  of 
life. 

Though  we  are  sinful  and  unclean,  yet  what 
pollution  and  defilement  cannot  this  Fountain, 
opened  for  sin  and  uncleanness,  wash  and  cleanse 
us  from !  Having  therefore  such  an  all-sufficient 
Saviour  to  repair  to,  we  will  not  be  faithless,  but 
believing  that  Christ  is  our  Lord,  and  our  God, 
who  loved  and  redeemed  us,  and  washed  us  from 
our  sins  in  his  own  blood.  O  that  we  may  know 
him,  and  the  fellowship  of  his  sufferings,  and  be 
so  conformable  to  his  death,  that  it  may  mortify 
the  corruption  of  our  nature,  and  the  lusts  that 
war  in  our  members ;  and  crucify  the  world  unto 
us,  and  us  to  the  world !  The  Lord  pardon  all 
our  forgetfulness  and  disregard,  and  contempt  of 
thy  affection  to  us,  and  thy  affliction  for  us;  and 
make  us  to  know  more  of  the  love  wherewith 
thou  hast  loved  us;  and  touch  our  hearts  with 
such  a  powerful  sense  of  thy  love,  that  we  may 
make  better  returns  of  love  to  the  great  Lord 
and  lover  of  our  souls ;  and  that  we  may  never  for- 
get or  slight  such  unparalleled  kindness  and  love 
of  God  our  Saviour,  stronger  than  death,  and  bet- 
ter than  life.  O  that  the  life  which  we  now  live, 
maybe  by  the  faith  of  the  Son  of  God,  who  loved 
us,  and  gave  himself  for  us!  O  let  us,  at  all  times, 
so  live  that  we  may  abound  in  thy  love.  Blessed 
Lord!  let  this  be  ever  preferred  above  our  chief 
joy;  and  let  nothing  in  the  world  ever  be  so 
dear  to  us  as  the  altogether  lovely  Jesus,  who 
has  given  the  highest  demonstration  of  love  that 
ever  could  be  %\  ven  to  our  poor  lost  souls.  And  to 
thee,  our  Almighty  Redeemer,  and  sweet  Saviour, 
be  all  the  praise  and  glory  given,  most  humbly 
and  heartily,  now  and  eternally,  dmen,  Jlmen. 


A  Prayer  on  the  Resurrection.  323 

Prayer  and  Praise  on  the  Occasion  of  our  blessed  Sa- 
viour's  Resurrection. 

BLESSED  be  the  God  and  Father  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  according  to  his 
abundant  mercy,  has  begotten  us  again  to  a  live- 
ly hope,  by  the  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ  from 
the  dead.  It  is  he  that  liveth,  and  was  dead; 
and  behold  he  is  alive  for  evermore.  Amen;  and 
has  the  keys  of  death  and  of  hell.  The  Lord  liv- 
eth, and  blessed  be  our  Rock,  and  let  the  God 
of  our  salvation  be  exalted.  He  that  bore  our 
griefs  and  carried  our  sorrows,  has  wrought  eter- 
nal redemption  for  us:  with  his  own  right  hand 
and  holy  arm,  hath  he  gotten  himself  the  victory; 
having  loosed  the  pains  of  death,  because  it  was 
impossible  he  should  be  holden  of  it.  The  glo- 
rious Sun  of  Righteousness  is  risen  with  healing 
in  his  wings;  and  hath  showed,  that  he  is  able 
to  save  himself,  and  to  save  to  the  utmost  all  that 
come  to  God  through  him.  Our  eyes  therefore 
are  to  thee,  O  Lord,  our  life,  our  strength,  and 
our  Redeemer,  wrho  hast  all  power  in  heaven 
and  in  earth,  to  whom  nothing  is  impossible  or 
difficult;  who  quickenest  the  dead,  even  souls 
dead  in  sin,  as  well  as  bodies  dead  in  the  grave; 
and  hast  life  in  thyself,  to  give  it  to  whomsoevei 
thou  wilt.  O  that  we  may  know  thee,  and  the 
power  of  thy  resurrection!  and  that  we  may  feel 
it  efficacious  to  raise  us  out  of  the  grave  of  our 
sinful  corruptions,  to  newness  and  holiness  of  life! 
that  having  part  in  the  first  resurrection,  th^  se- 
cond death  may  have  no  power  over  us.  Speak 
death  to  our  sins,  O  Lord,  that  our  souls  may 
live,  and  for  ever  bless  thy  name.  Thou,  O 
Christ,  art  our  life ;  and  in  thee  is  all  fulness  of 


324  A  Prayer  on  the  Ascension. 

whatever  we  want.  O  give  us  that  life  which 
thou  earnest  into  the  world  to  give,  and  let  us 
have  it  more  abundantly:  yea,  such  life,  from 
thee,  as  may  enable  us  to  live  unto  thee;  and 
that  entirely  and  cheerfully,  even  as  long  as  we 
have  any  life  and  being.  Amen. 

Prayer  and  Praise  on  the  Occasion  of  our  blessed  Sar 
viour^s  Ascension. 

THOU  art  the  King  of  glory,  O  Christ;  thou 
hast  ascended  on  high,  and  dragged  the 
internal  foes  after  thy  triumphant  chariot.  And 
thou  art  exalted  above  all  principalities  and 
powers;  and  enthroned  in  the  highest  glory  in 
thy  heavenly  kingdom,  where  saints  and  angels, 
and  all  the  host  of  heaven  do  admire  and  adore 
thee.  Be  thou  exalted,  Lord,  and  reign  in  the 
greatness  of  thy  power  arid  majesty,  till  thou 
hast  brought  all  enemies  in  subjection  under  thy 
feet.  But,  Lord,  remember  us,  now  thou  art  in 
thy  kingdom,  where  thou  rulest  and  reignest  on 
high.  O  regard  the  supplications,  and  relieve 
the  necessities  of  thy  poor  subjects  arid  servants 
here  below.  Save,  Lord,  and  let  the  King  of 
heaven  hear  us  when  we  call.  And  O  that  we 
may  feel  the  powerful  attraction  of  thy  grace  and 
Holy  Spirit;  to  draw  up  our  minds  arid  desires 
from  the  poor  perishing  enjoyments  here  below, 
to  tho$e  most  glorious  and  everlasting  attain-. | 
merits  above,  where  thou  sittest  at  the  right  hand 
of  God.  O  let  us  lay  up  our  treasure  and  have 
our  conversation  with  thee  in  heaven;  and 
love  thy  appearing,  and  desire  to  be  dissolved 
and  to  be  with  Christ,  that  when  Christ,  who  is 
our  life,  shall  appear,  we  may  also  appear  with 
him  in  glory  :  and  after  our  ascending  and  dwell 


A  Prayer  for  Whitsuntide.  325 

ing  above  in  heart  and  spirit,  we  may  at  last  per- 
sonally ascend,  in  soul  and  body,  to  be  ever  with 
the  Lord:  there,  together  with  thy  whole  tri- 
umphant church,  to  see  and  admire,  and  love  and 
bless,  and  praise  and  glorify  thee,  O  blessed  God, 
our  Saviour,  world  without  end.  Amen. 


A' Prayer  on  the  Occasion  of  the  coming  of  the  Holy 
Ghost. 

OTHOU  infinite  eternal  Spirit,  the  Lord 
and  giver  of  life,  who  workest  all  in  all ; 
and  especially  workest  and  abidestinthe  hearts 
and  souls  of  men!  pardon, we  beseech  thee,  all 
our  resisting  of  thy  motions,  and  quenching  the 
flames  which  thou  hast  ever  kindled  in  our 
breasts.  And  be  pleased  so  to  enlighten  our 
minds,  and  purify  our  hearts,  that  we  may  be  fit 
to  receive  and  entertain  thee,  as  the  Guide  and 
Comforter  of  our  souls.  O  blessed  Truth  !  lead 
us  into  all  truth  ;  and  bring  all  needful  things  out 
of  thy  word  to  our  remembrance:  and  set  them 
home  powerfully  upon  our  hearts,  to  influence 
our  lives,  and  to  do  us  good,  in  every  time  of  ;ur 
need.  O  work,  Lord,  the  grace  that  is  not  in  us  ; 
and  establish  and  increase  what  thou  hast  al- 
ready wrought  upon  us.  Excite  and  stir  us  up  to 
all  good;  and  enable  us  for  the  performance  of 
it,  and  engage  us  to  continue  and  persist  in  it. 

O  come  down,  Lord,  as  fire,  upon  us,  to  con- 
sume our  dross,  and  to  make  clean  our  hearts, 
and  inflame  them  with  heavenly  love,  that  we 
may  rightly  relish  thy  holy  things,  and  be  lively 
in  following  of  thy  holy  ways.  O  be  thou  a  pow- 
erful principle  of  life,  and  light,  and  love,  and  of 
all  grace  and  holiness  in  our  souls,  to  clear  and 
illuminate  our  minds,  to  spiritualize  and  raise  up 
2  E 


326  Far  any  Saints  Day. 

our  affections;  and  to  pacify  and  compose  our 
consciences;  and  to  bring  our  souls  out  of  every 
dangerous,  self-destroying  course,  into  the  paths 
of  righteousness — and  that  way  of  life,  which  is 
above  to  the  wise,  to  depart  from  hell  beneath. 
O  blessed  Lord,  restrain  us  from  grieving  the 
Holy  Spirit  of  God,  whereby  we  are  sealed  to 
the  day  of  redemption;  and  cast  us  not  away 
from  thy  presence.  Take  not  thy  Holy  Spirit 
from  us.  O  make  us  so  tractable  to  his  holy  mo- 
tions, that  we  may  experience  his  heavenly  con- 
solations. And  let  the  joy  in  the  Holy  Ghost  he 
more  to  us  than  all  the  pleasures  of  the  world. 
O  blessed  Spirit  !  be  thou  ever  with  our  spirits, 
to  heal  our  distempers,  and  help  our  infirmities, 
and  work  mightily  upon  our  hearts  by  thy  grace, 
till  our  souls  are  fitted  for  that  glory  which  is  un- 
speakable and  everlasting.  Jtmen. 

Ji  Prayer  on  the  Commemoration  of  any  Saint. 

OGOD  of  all  grace,  who  art  pleased  to  call 
out  of  this  present  world  a  peculiar  people 
to  thyself;  and  so  far  to  discover  thy  grace,  and 
pour  out  thy  spirit  upon  many  of  thy  servants,  to 
make  them  shine  as  light  in  the  midst  of  a  crook- 
ed and  perverse  generation  ;  eminent  in  all  praise- 
worthy things;  and  great  examples  to  the  rest  of 
mankind!  We  bless  thy  name,  O  Lord,  that  thou 
hast  not  .eft  this  miserable  world  destitute  of 
such  helps  and  patterns,  both  to  show  us  a  more 
excellent  way  than  the  wny  of  the  world;  and 
also  to  show  us  how  practicable  is  our  duty ;  and 
what  encouragement  we  have  to  t'*ke  the  holy 
good  way,  wherein  others,  with  such  happy  suc- 
cess, have  gone  before  us;  that  we,  in  our  slug- 
gishness, might  be  excited  to  be  followers  of  them. 


For  any  Sainfs  Day.  327 

as  they  were  of  Christ.  And  seeing  we  are  en- 
compassed with  so  great  a  cloud  of  witnesses,  O 
that  we  may  lay  aside  every  weight,  and  the  sin 
that  doth  so  easily  beset  us,  and  run  with  pa- 
tience the  race  that  is  set  before  us  !  Teach  and 
enable  us,  O  King  of  saints,  to  make  the  good 
use  and  advantage  of  thy  gifts  and  graces,  shin- 
ing forth  in  the  inoffensive  useful  lives  of  such 
as  have  given  thy  holy  religion  the  best  recom- 
mendation, by  letting  men  see  their  good  works; 
and  how  much  more  excellent  it  makes  the 
righteous  than  their  neighbours. 

O  that  we  may  never  persecute  thy  saints,  nor 
madly  despise  those  who  are  as  the  apple  of 
thine  eye,  whose  great  care  is  to  approve  them- 
selves faithful  in  thy  covenant,  and  zealous  for 
thy  glory:  and  not  only  to  preserve  their  integ- 
rity, and  keep  themselves  unspotted  from  the 
world ;  but  to  do  good  in  their  generations,  and 
turn  many  to  righteousness.  May  we  ever  hold 
such  in  highest  reputation  while  living,  as  well 
as  count  their  memories  precious  when  they  are 
dead.  O  heavenly  Father!  let  them  be  dearest 
to  us  that  are  so  to  thyself.  And  let  all  our  delight 
be  in  such  excellent  ones,  the  saints  that  are  in 
the  earth,  of  whom  the  world  is  not  worthy ;  how- 
ever  they  be  so  frequently  and  greatly  abused 
by  the  world,  as  if  unworthy  to  live  in  it.  O  let 
us  not  be  conformed  to  this  world,  nor  follow  the 
multitude  to  do  evil:  but  be  followers  of  those, 
who,  through  faith  and  patience,  do  already  in- 
herit thy  glorious  promises  ;  and  so  live  the  life, 
that  we  may  also  die  the  death  of  the  righteous. 
Help  us.  Lord  our  God,  so  to  imitate  thy  saints 
here,  in  their  holy  living,  that  hereafter  we  may 
be  numbered  with  them  in  the  glory  everlasting 


328  Jl  Soliloquy  upon  the  Creed. 

As  we  desire  arid  hope  for  their  blessed  end,  O 
let  us  love  and  follow  their  godly  way,  and  make 
the  communion  of  saints  a  point  of  our  practice, 
as  well  as  an  article  of  our  faith:  being  lovers  of 
all  good  men,  honouring  them  that  fear  the  Lord, 
and  esteeming  them  very  highly  in  love  for  their 
work's  sake.  And  the  Lord  increase  the  num- 
ber of  the  true  converts,  and  thy  faithful  people, 
and  those  that  be  followers  of  God,  as  dear  chil- 
dren in  all  places.  O  let  thy  kingdom  come,  and 
thy  will  be  done  on  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven,  that 
thy  church  may  grow  and  prosper  and  flourish; 
till  we,  with  all  thy  servants  departed  in  the 
Lord,  meet  together  in  the  kingdom  of  our  Fa- 
ther, to  live  in  thy  presence  and  love;  and  to  en- 
joy arid  praise  thee,  world  without  end.  Jlmen. 


A    SOLILOQUY  for  the  pious  SouVs  Solace:  byway  of 
Paraphrase  on  the  Creed. 

LET  not  your  hearts  be  troubled,  saith  the  Lord  of  love, 
our  dear  compassionate  Redeemer ;  ye  believe  in  God,  believe 
also  in  ine,  the  Messenger  of  his  love,  sent  to  be  the  Saviour 
of  the  world. 

Why  art  thou  cast  down  then,  O  my  soul !  and  why  art 
thou  disquieted  within  me!  when 

I      BELIEVE    IN    GOD, 

And  am  not  exposed,  as  one  forlorn,  to  shift  for  myself,  and 
to  make  a  happiness  out  of  my  own  stock,  or  want*  it !  but  I 
have  a  God  to  repair  unto,  and  depend  upon  ;  arid  to  expect 
all  that  ever  I  can  desire  from  him.  And  this  God  is 

THE  FATHER, 

Not  only  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  eternal  generation,  but 
my  Father,  by  a  late  creation,  which  has  brought  me  out  of 
nothing  to  what  I  am  ;  not  only  to  being,  arid  life,  and  sense, 
but,  to  the  use  of  reason  and  to  the  enjoyment  of  all  that  ever 
I  have  in  the  world.  Yea,  I  am  bolt!  to  father  myself  upon 
him  also  by  a  spiritual  adoption  ;  and  I  persuaded  am  that  a 
woman  may  sooner  forget  her  sucking  child,  than  the  Lord 
will  forsake  that  work  of  his  hands  which  he  has  now  created 


A  Soliloquy  upon  the  Creed.  329 

in  Christ  Jesus  :  nor  is  he  less  able  than  willing  to  do  me 
good,  being 

ALMIGHTY  ; 

And  what  is  too  hard  for  Omnipotence  ?  or  who  can  pluck  me 
out  of  his  hands,  to  whom  the  very  powers  of  hell  are  but 
weakness  ?  Though  I  am  weak  as  a  shaken  reed  myself ; 
yet  my  help  stands  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  who  is  the 

MAKER  OF  HEAVEN  AND  EARTH. 

And  what  can  any  of  his  creatures  do  agarnst  me,  when  God 
himself  is  for  me;  he  that  made  all,  will  his  child  want  a  com- 
petency in  the  world  ?  or  should  I  be  turned  out  of  the  earth, 
yet  all  heaven  is  the  Lord's ;  and  when  he  is  my  portion,  I 
am  sure  of  that  which  is  infinitely  better  than  all  the  world's 
good  5  which,  alas,  is  but  a  poor  drop  from  the  eternal  Foun- 
tain of  all  goodness.  And  what  can  be  better  than  him  that 
made  it,  and  gave  it  all  that  goodness  which  it  has  ?  Myself, 
and  whatever  I  see  in  the  world,  was  once  nothing ;  and  the 
great  Lord,  who  was  most  blessed  before  all  worlds,  and  would 
nave  been  nevertheless  blessed,  though  we  had  never  been  at 
all,  he  has  brought  us  into  being;  not  for  any  need  he  had  of 
us,  but  to  communicate  of  his  goodness  to  us, 

IN  JESUS  CHRIST. 

And  what  so  sweet  as  Jesus  in  my  mouth  !  No  such  music  in 
my  ears  ;  no  such  gladness  in  my  heart.  I  was  lost,  and  Je- 
sus is  my  Saviour  ;  I  was  dead,  and  Jesus  is  my  life  ;  I  was 
an  enemy,  and  Jesus  is  my  peace.  Still  I  sin,  and  Jesus  is 
my  advocate  with  the  Father.  Christ  is  my  prophet  to  direct 
me,  my  priest  to  atone  for  me,  my  king  to  defend  me,  and  to 
watch  for  good  over  me  ;  he  is  all  that  I  want  and  that  I  can 
wish.  I  am  worse  than  nothing  without  him  ;  and  have  all 
things  given  me  together  with  him,  who  is  the  beloved  of  the 
Father ; 

His  ONLY  SON. 

The  only  one,  by  nature,  that  is  co-equal  with  the  Father  5 
and  having  such  a  friend  in  the  court  of  heaven,  I  will  there- 
fore come  boldly  to  the  throne  of  grace.  For  if  the  Son  make 
us  free,  we  shall  be  free  indeed.  The  Father  will  deny  us 
nothing  that  we  ask  in  his  name;  and  the  Son  upbraids  us,  that 
we  make  no  more  use  of  this  our  blessed  privilege.  Hitherto 
ye  have  asked  nothing  in  my  name,  saith  he  ;  ask  and  ye  shall 
receive,  that  your  joy  may  be  full.  Such  pleasure  has  he 
in  the  prosperity  of  his  servants,  who  is 

OUR  LOUD, 

Our  heavenly  Sovereign;  at  whose  feet  kings  do  cast  their 
crowns,  and  all  the  angels  of  God  worship  him.   O  happy  the 
2  E  2 


330  Jl  Soliloquy  upon  the  Creed. 

servants,  that  have  such  a  Lord !  and  blessed  be  the  Lord, 
that  will  admit  me  in  the  number  of  his  servants!  Is  not  he 
my  Lord,  that  has  bought  me  ?  In  one  sacrament  I  was  listed 
into  his  service ;  arid  in  the  other,  how  oft  have  I  sworn  to 
him  allegiance!  This  is  the  crown  of  all  my  glorying,  that 
lesus  is  my  Lord, 

WHO   WAS    CONCEIVED    BY  THE    HoLY  GHOST, 

n  a  miraculous  manner,  above  all  the  power  of  nature;  and 
without  any  the  least  spot  of  sin ;  that  he  might  be  the  meet 
propitiation  for  all  our  sins.  He  is  fairer  than  the  children 
of  men,  who  are,  all  of  them,  shapen  in  iniquity,  and  conceived 
in  sin.  But  he  is  free  from  every  blemish,  and  altogether 
lovely. 

BORN  OF  THE  VIRGIN  MARY, 

And  so  he  has  done  the  highest  honour  to  our  poor  nature,  by 
uniting  it  to  the  divine?  taking  part  of  our  flesh  and  blood, 
that  he  might  riot  only  be  touched  with  the  feeling  of  our  in- 
firmities, but  also  taste  death  for  our  offences:  coming  down 
to  earth  to  raise  us  up  to  heaven  ;  and  manifested  in  our  flesh 
and  blood.,  that  he  might  not  only  be  touched  with  the  feeling 
for  our  infirmities^  but  also  to  taste  death  for  our  offences  : 
coming  down  to  earth,  to  raise  us  up  to  heaven  ;  and  mani- 
fested in  our  flesh,  to  bring  salvation  home  to  our  very  doors  : 
And  how  can  I  ever  now  be  at  a  desperate  loss,  when  the 
Lord,  in  whom  lies  our  help,  is  become  God  with  us!  and'to 
embolden  our  addresses  to  him,  he  has  vouchsafed  even  to  set 
up  his  dwelling  among  us.  All  the  glory  of  salvation  be  to  thee, 
O  Lord,  who  has  brought  such  joy  of  salvation  to  the  world. 

HE    SUFFERED   UNDER   PONTIUS    PlLATE. 

And  having  no  need  at  all  to  suffer  for  any  sins  of  his  own, 
was  he  not  wounded  for  our  transgressions  and  bruised  for  our 
iniquities  ?  O  wicked  wretch  !  that  I  should  be  one  of  those, 
who  put  the  Son  of  God  himself  upon  suffering !  but  O  how 
happy  for  me,  that  he  should  be  pleased  to  suffer  once,  to  save 
me  from  suffering  for  ever. 

HE  WAS  CRUCIFIED. 

Love,  that  was  strong  as  death,  fastened  my  Saviour  to  the  in- 
famous tree ;  with  his  arms  extended  to  receive  me  ;  and  his 
side  opened  to  make  me  a  passage  to  his  very  heart.  0  my 
dearest  Lord  ;  God  forbid  that  I  should  glory  save  in  thj 
cross  ;  which  I  show  Satan  to  confound  him  $  on  which  1  lean, 
to  rest  mv  weary  soul ;  and  to  which  I  will  cling, though  car- 
ried by  the  gates  of  hell  :  yea,  by  which  I  hope  to  climb  to 
the  glory  everlasting  in  heaven.  He  wa3 


A  Soliloquy  upon  the  Creed.  331 

DFAD. 

Not  only  Abraham,  the  friend  of  God,  gave  up  the  ghost; 
but  he  that  was  before  Abraham,  our  blessed  Saviour  himself, 
the  well  beloved  Son  of  God,  when  he  took  upon  him  the  seed 
of  Abraham,  was  not  excused  from  dying.  And  shall  I  then 
conclude  that  my  God  has  no  kindness  for  me,  because  I 
must  follow  such  forerunners,  and  go  the  way  of  ail  flesh  ? 
No ;  though  he  slay  me,  yet  will  I  trust  in  him,  and  have 
hope  even  in  my  death ;  for  the  death  of  Christ  is  my  life ; 
seeing  he  has  taken  out  the  sting  of  death  temporal,  and  made 
it  the  very  entrance  of  life  eternal.  He  has  led  us  the  way, 
through  that  gloomy  vale,  to  the  glorious  region  of  immortal- 
ity. And  shall  death  separate  me  from  my  Saviour,  or  di- 
vorce my  soul  from  the  heavenly  bridegroom  ?  No;  I  depart 
hence  to'be  with  Christ,  and  that  I  may  get  nearer  to  him  whom 
my  soul  loveth.  He  is  gone  beforehand,  Lord,  I  will  follow 
thee  whithersoever  thou  goest.  Thou  wast  laid  in  the  grave, 

AND  BURIED, 

To  make  that  desolate  place  inviting  by  thy  presence;  to 
perfume  the  chambers  of  death,  and  turn  the  horrible  pit  into 
a  happy  seminary — where  the  poor,  weak,  perishing  flesh  is 
sown  to  come  up  again,  powerful,  glorious,  and  incorruptible. 
And  shall  I  shrink  from  the  bed  where  my  Lord  himself  lay  ! 
would  I  lie  better  than  he  did  ?  No;  the  grave  itself  is  become 
a  goodly  lodging  since  Christ  was  there.  And  I  will  not  e;o 
down  in  sorrow  to  my  grave,  when  going  but  to  sleep  with 
Jesus,  the  life  of  my  soul,  and  the  spring  of  all  my  joy 

HE  DESCENDED   INTO   HELL. 

Three  days  he  continued  in  the  state  of  the  dead,  that  none 
might  question  the  truth  of  his  death,  upon  which  depends 
all  our  hope  of  pardon  and  life.  That  I  might  not  dread  the 
parting  of  soul  and  body,  which  befell  my  Lord  himself;  and 
that  none  belonging  to  him  might  be  out  of  heart,  even  at  the 
lowest  ebb,  when  our  Redeemer  lay  so  long  under  the 
power  of  death. 

THE  THIRD  DAY  HE  AROSE  AGAIN  FROM  THE  DEAD. 
And  shall  I  be  in  bondage  all  my  life,  through  fear  of  death, 
when  under  the  conduct  of  such  a  victorious  Captain  of  salva- 
tion, that  has  triumphed  over  all  the  powers  of  the  grave? 
No ;  he  lives  and  was  dead.  And  though  I  know  I  must  die, 
yet  withal  I  know  that  my  Redeemer  liveth,  and  is  alive  for 
evermore  ;  and  because  he  lives,  I  shall  live  also;  for  he  Has 
r»o  life  but  what  every  member  of  his  shall  share  in.  Now, 
therefore,  0  death,  I  can  triumph  over  thee,  since  my  Lord 
ku  routed  all  thy  forces.  It  is  true,  yet  thou  canst  kill  me, 


332  A  Soliloquy  upou  tke  Creed. 

but  thou  canst  not  hurt  me ;  for  take  down  this  cra-/.y  cottage, 
and  a  better  fabric  shall  succeed,  to  stand  for  eternal  ages. 
But  could  not  all  the  bonds  of  death  hold  my  Almighty  Sa- 
viour ?  Dearest  Lord!  thou  wast  arrested  for  our  debt,  and 
laid  up  in  the  prison  of  the  grave?  on  our  account;  but  thy  re- 
lease gives  me  a  cheerful  assurance  that  thou  hast  satisfied 
divine  justice  to  the  utmost.  Since  thou  art  come  so  gloriously 
forth,  1  am  sure  that  all  is  discharged.  Then  blessed  be  the 
God  and  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who,  according  to 
his  abundant  mercy,  has  begotten  us  again  to  a  lively  hope, 
by  the  resurrection* of  Jesus  Christ  from  the  dead. 

HE  ASCKXDKD  INTO  HEAVEN. 

And  ()  with  what  joyful  acclamations  was  he  welcomed  home 
into  those  high  regions  of  the  blessed,  after  all  his  wondrous 
achievements  to  elfect eternal  redemption  for  us!  He  led  cap- 
tivity captive,  and  dragged  the  infernal  powers  after  his  tri- 
umphant chariot,  to  show  that  hell,  as  well  as  death,  is  subject 
unto  him.  And  now  he  has  cleared  us  a  way  to  glory,  and 
opened  the  kingdom  of  heaven  to  all  believers;  being  gone  to 
prepare  a  place  for  us;  that  where  he  is,  there  we  may  be  also. 
Even  where 

HE  SITTETH  AT  THE  RIGHT  HAND   OF  GOD$  THE  FATHER  Al>~ 
MIGHTY^ 

Far  above  all  principalities  and  powers,  a  glorious  King  for 
evermore.  With  all  powers  and  authority  in  his  hands,  and  all 
the  crowns  and  mansions  of  glory  at  his  disposal.  He  is  not 
only  the  Prince  of  the  kings  of  the  earth,  by  whom  they  all  do 
reign:  but  all  the  angels  in  heaven  iiy  to  do  his  pleasure;  where 
he  has  thrown  oft'  the  veil,  under  which  he  shrouded  his  ma- 
jesty here  below;  and  shows  himself  now  in  all  the  splendour 
of  the  King  of  glory,  to  the  admiration  of  the  highest  cherub- 
ims  and  seraphims,  who  will  be  joyfully  taken  up  to  all  eter- 
nity, in  beholding  such  wonders  of  divine  beauty  and  glory. 
To  him  I  look  as  the  great  author  and  finisher  of  our  faith, 
and  the  blessed  object  of  my  daily  worship  and  devotion;  who, 
in  all  the  height  of  his  glory,  does  not  forget  his  poor  retainers 
here,  but  has  still  bowels  of  compassion  to  intercede  for  us, 
as  well  as  fulness  of  power  to  prevail  on  our  behalf;  and  God 
forbid  that  I  should  forget  this  absent  friend;  that  he  should 
be,  to  me,  out  of  sight  out  of  mind.  O  where  should  be  my 
heart,  but  with  the  great  love  and  beloved  of  my  soul?  who 
not  only  humbled  himself  on  earth,  but  even  now  in  heaven  so 
humbles  himself,  as  to  remember  me  in  my  low  estate.  And 
when  I  am  loaded,  or  gravelled,  that  I  know  not  what  to  do,  I 
will  go  and  put  the  matter  into  his  hands,  who  can  easily  help 


A.  Soliloquy  upon  the  Creed.  333 

me  out,  and  set  me  ri«-lit;  for  tho*»e  enemies  who  are  too  hard 
for  me  he  can  SGJII  make  his  footstool.  What  boon  so  big  to 
be  asked,  but  this  great  Master  of  requests  in  heaven,  can 
obtain  it  for  me?  What  time  I  am  afraid  then,  or  troubled, 
in  a  strait  or  at  a  loss,  I  will  look  unto  Jesus,  at  God's  right 
hand  ab  we,  and  remember  his  kind  offices  there;  and  pray  his 
friendship,  and  entreat  his  gracious  favour,  who  is  worthy  ever 
to  be  heard  for  me,  though  I  am  unworthy  to  speak  for 
myself. 
FROM  THENCE  HE  SHALL  COME  TO  JUDGE  THE  QUICK  AND 

THE  DEAD, 

And  shall  appear  in  greater  power  and  glory  than  ever  he  was 
seen  here  in  weakness  and  poverty:  when  his  stubborn  enemies, 
that  would  not  that  he  should  reign  over  the-n,  shall  be  brought 
forth  and  slain  before  him;  and  all  his  sheep  that  hear  his 
voice,  and  follow  him,  waiting  for  his  coming,  and  loving  his 
appearing,  shall  then  hold  up  the  head,  and  never  droop  any 
more,  but  find  the  most  refreshing  sunshine  amidst  all  th^ 
gloominess  and  horrors  of  that  day;  which  will  be  to  them 
a  day  of  discharge,  and  jubilee,  and  coronation;  the  most 
sweet  and  lightsome  day  that  ever  came  over  them.  Then 
shall  I  see  him  sit  on  the  throne  to  give  me  my  portion;  who 
was  nailed  on  the  cross  to  purchase  my  salvation;  my  Advo- 
cate, my  life,  my  Saviour,  will  be  alone  exalted  in  that  day. 
And  will  my  Advocate  accuse  me?  will  my  life  destroy  me  ? 
will  my  Saviour  condemn  me?  No;  though  good  and  bad  both 
be  called  over  there;  long  as  Jesus  is  my  judge,  who  himself 
has  satisfied  for  the  bad,  and  will  make  my  imperfect  good 
then  shine  out  as  the  noon-day;  I  will  pray,  come  Lord  Jesus, 
come  quickly. 

I  BELIEVE  IN  THE  HoLY  GHOST, 

The  Lord  and  giver  of  life,  the  heavenly  counsellor  and  com- 
forter of  our  souls,  by  whom  I  call  Jesus  Lord,  and  cry  Abba 
Father  unto  my  God.  And  having  such  a  blessed  guardian, 
and  divine  inhabitant,  why  do  I  drag  on  heavily,  as  if  left 
comfortless?  why  do  I  not  overflow  with  joy  in  the  Holy 
Ghost  ?  am  I  weak  ?  he  is  the  power  of  the  Most  High,  to 
help  my  infirmities.  Am  1  forgetful  ?  he  is  the  kind  monitor, 
to  bring  all  needful  things  to  my  remembrance.  Am  I  afraid 
lest  I  should  fail  of  God's  acceptance  and  salvation?  this 
blessed  Spirit  witnesseth  with  my  spirit,  that  I  am  the  child 
of  God;  and  seals  me  to  the  day  of  redemption.  Away  then, 
tiiou  foul  accuser  of  the  brethren:  peace,  clamorous  consci- 
ence; and  stand  aside  all  pitiful  creature  comforts;  I  have 
alliance  in  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  Comforter.  For  I  belong  to 


334  *A  Soliloquy  upon  the  Creed. 

THE  HOLY  CATHOLIC  CHURCH. 

I  am  a  member  of  that  most  truly  royal  society,  some  of  which 
are  already  entered  into  the  joy  of  their  Lord,  got  out  of  the 
field  to  their  crowns;  and  passed  from  service  to  triumph; 
and  the  rest  here — yet  on  our  pilgrimage  and  warfare — are 
reaching  forth  to  the  glorious  prize  of  the  high  calling  of  God 
in  Christ  Jesus.  The  lines  are  fallen  to  me  in  pleasant  places, 
where  the  Sun  of  Righteousness  is  sent  to  us,  and  causes  the 
heavenly  day-spring  from  on  high  to  shine  upon  us;  yea,  in 
that  church,  against  which  the  gates  of  hell  shall  not  prevail. 
I  believe 

THE  COMMUNION  OF  SAINTS. 

The  same  life  and  spirit  pervade  the  multitude  of  believers 
every  where:  and  like  so  many  rivulets  they  run  all  to  the 
game  sea,  although  not  in  the  same  channel:  Or,  like  divers 
strings  of  a  musical  instrument,  though  they  have  several 
notes,  yet  they  make  up  one  song  of  praise  and  glory  to  their 
common  Lord;  from  whom  they  receive  influence,  as  all  the 
bodily  parts  do  from  the  head,  and  are  knit  together  as  fellow- 
members  of  Christ's  body.  They  are  the  household  of  faith; 
of  that  corporation  and  family  of  heaven;  for  the  sake  of  which 
they  forget  their  own  people,  and  father's  house.  Yea,  as  all 
the  parts  of  the  body,  how  mean  soever,  share  in  the  same  life 
as  is  in  the  head  and  heart,  and  the  noblest  members  despise 
not  the  vilest;  but  the  lowest  are  of  use  to  the  highest,  and  all 
conspire  for  the  joint  interest  of  the  whole;  so  1,  as  a  part  of 
this  great  body,  whilst  I  struggle  not  for  myself,  but  keep  to 
the  flock  of  Christ,  and  join  with  them  in  the  worship  and  ser- 
vice of  my  Lord,  and  tender  and  love  them  in  my  heart,  am  one 
of  their  happy  number,  and  do  share  in  the  prayers  of  every 
faithful  Christian  throughout  the  world:  ami  communicating 
now  with  the  saints  in  all  offices  of  love,  I  shall  be  advanced, 
with  them,  to  the  possession  of  their  heavenly  inheritance  in 
eternal  life. 

THE  FORGIVENESS  OF  SINS. 

This  is  the  article  that  strikes  at  the  very  root  of  bitterness, 
and  removes  the  ground  of  all  my  fears  and  griefs.  O  how 
numerous  are  my  sins!  and  what  a  heavy  load  ujjon  my  soul! 
But  it  enlightens  my  heart  to  hear  of  God  manifested  in  the 
flesh:  to  undergo  all  the  penalties  of  sin,  in  the  very  nature 
that  sinned;  to  bear  our  sins  in  his  own  body  on  the  tree. 
And  when  our  all-sufficient  Surety  has  finished  the  atonement, 
will  the  justice  of  God  require  a  "second  payment?  No;  God 
is  not  only  merciful,  but  just  also,  in  justifying  the  believers 
in  Jesus;  'who  was  made  sin  for  us,  who  knew  no  sin,  that  we 


A  Soliloquy  upon  the  Creed.  335 

might  bo  made  the  righteousness  of  God  in  him.  And  now  all 
the  frightful  guilt  is  swallowed  up  in  that  Fountain  opened  for 
sin  and  uncleanness,  like  as  a  drop  of  ink  is  lost  in  a  mighty  ri- 
ver; so  that  my  spirit  rejoices  in  God  my  Saviour;  and  I  thank 
God,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  whose  blood  cleanses  us 
from  all  our  sin.  O  that  I  could  love  him  yet  more,  who  for- 
giveth  me  so  much. 

THE  RESURRECTION  OF  THE  BODY. 

This  is  the  Christian's  strong  hold,  that  although  we  fall 
into  the  grave,  we  shall  not  be  utterly  cast  down;  but  have 
a  Lord  that  will  be  the  plague  of  death,  and  the  destruc- 
tion of  the  grave;  to  redeem  us  out  of  the  hands  of  both. 
My  flesh  is  perishing  as  the  grass  that  is  green  and  wither- 
eth  in  a  day.  But  this  mortal  shall  put  on  immortality: 
yea,  mortality  itself  shall  be  swallowed  up  of  life.  This 
heavy  log,  though  sown  a  natural,  shall  rise  a  spiritual  body, 
to  glide  through  ethereal  regions,  as  the  fish  in  crystal 
streams;  and  swifter  than  eagle  or  arrow,  to  follow  the  Lamb 
whithersoever  he  goes.  Even  the  vile,  coarse  flesh,  in  the 
great  morning  of  the  resurrection,  shall  come  forth,  as  a  glo- 
rious bridegroom  out  of  his  chamber;  and  like  the  trees  new 
apparelled  in  the  spring;  more  orient  and  beautiful  of  itielf 
than  all  make  it;  shining  as  the  firmament;  yea,  outvying 
the  stars  and  the  sun.  Is  my  body  then  often  here  ]  it  to 
hardships?  Be  it  so;  I  do  not  look  for  my  heaven  in  it  now, 
as  it  is  here;  but  I  expect  it  to  rise  impassable,  past  all  suffer- 
ing: And,  in  the  mean  time,  I  must  not  think  it  strange  to  be 
tossed  on  shipboard,  till  I  arrive  at  the  fair  haven,  where  I 
would  be.  Am  I  tempted  to  excesses,  or  any  lusts  of  the 
flesh?  I  will  not  surfeit  on  the  meat  that  perishes,  nor  sink 
the  vessel  that  is  carrying  me  over  to  the  blessed  land  of  pro- 
mise. Rather  let  me  go  without  my  full  repast  in  the  even- 
ing of  this  mortal  life;  so  that  I  break  my  fast  on  thy  heavenly 
pleasures  of  eternity,  in  the  dawning  of  the  Last  Day.  I  do 
not  hate  thee,  my  own  flesh,  to  bid  thee  stay  and  Ceep  thy 
appetite  for  entertainments  infinitely  better;  seeing  I  believe 
the  resurrection  of  the  body, 

AND  THE  LIFE  EVERLASTING.  AMEN. 
This  is  the  centre  of  our  desire,  and  the  crown  of  our  joys; 
the  drift  of  our  whole  religion;  and  the  height  of  all  perfection: 
That  which  eases  all  our  labours,  and  makes  our  very  trou- 
bles look  cheerful  upon  u?.  Wretched  relief  is  the  heathens' 
antidote  againsl  the  dread  of  death;  only  to  think,  that  die 
we  must.  But  Christians  have  a  consolation  strong  indeed, 
that,  after  death,  we  shall  live  for  ever.  Our  present  lives  arc, 


336  A  Soliloquy  upon  the  Creed. 

for  the  most  part,  spent  in  providing  us  livelihoods;  and,  in- 
stead of  carrying  happiness  now  in  our  vessels,  all  that  we 
can  do  is  but  to  make  shift  a  little  to  stop  our  misery.  Though 
God  has  graciously  made  it  pleasant,  even  to  repair  the  de- 
cays of  our  nature:  yet  he  would  not  have  us  mistake  that 
poor  pleasure  for  our  heaven;  and  the  soul  that  knows  itself 
is  rather  weary  of  this  attendance  on  the  corruptible  Hesh,  and 
aspires  after  that  state  where  the  body  shall  obsequiously  fol- 
low, without  the  drudgery  of  patching  up  its  breaches  and  de- 
cays. Where  shall  be  nothing  vexatious  or  troublesome; 
nothing  to  hinder  or  abate  the  perfection  of  bliss!  nothing  to 
mar  or  embitter  the  fulness  of  joy,  but,  all  the  black  curtains 
drawn  aside,  we  shall  have  the  beatific  sight  of  our  Lord, 
which  will  create  in  us  raptures  greater  than  our  hearts  can 
hold,  till  heaven  shall  hold  our  souls,  and  we  enter  into  that 
joy  of  our  Lord,  which  is  too  large  to  enter  into  us;  where 
we  shall  meet  with  all  the  best  company  in  the  world;  and 
enjoy  that  sweetest  of  all  society,  without  any  reserves,  in  the 
most  glorious  place:  And  their  and  our  souls,  being  then  per- 
fectly healed  of  every  thing  offensive,  we  shall  have  all  the 
refreshments,  without  any  uneasiness  of  conversation.  Every 
faculty  of  the  soul  shall  then  imbibe  that  fulness  of  satisfac- 
tion which  so  long  it  had  sought,  but  never  found  before. 
And  neither  shall  the  body  want  an  agreeable  entertainment 
for  its  feast  and  solace.  But  it  is  not  for  a  tongue  of  flesh  to 
otter,  what  eyes  and  ears  of  flesh  never  saw  nor  heard.  It  is 
enough  to  know,  that  it  is  above  our  knowledge;  being  the  life 
that  is  sweetened  with  a  goodness  no  less  than  the  divine,  and 
measured  with  a  duration  no  shorter  than  eternal. 

All  this  I  believe;  and  I  believe  it  is  more  than  all  this 
which  I  believe,  in  believing  the  life  everlasting.  My  life  is 
hid  with  Christ  in  God;  and  the  life  which  1  now  live,  1  live 
by  the  faith  of  the  Son  of  God,  who  loved  me,  and  gave  him- 
self for  me.  And  when  Christ,  who  is  our  life,  shall  appear, 
then  shall  I  also  appear  with  him  in  glory.  ()  let  me  now  be- 
gin the  life  of  heaven,  and  hereafter  I  shall  never  know  its  end: 
while  I  am  here  alive,  may  1  so  die  to  the  flesh  and  the  world, 
that  when  I  depart  from  hence,  I  may  live  to  God  with  Christ; 
which  is  the  life  incomparably  best  of  all. 


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